Joan M. Kershner

Waltham – Mrs. Joan M. (Healey) Kershner, of Waltham, died Saturday, August 7, 2010 in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was 79.

Joan was born in Waltham on January 14, 1931 a daughter of the late John and Margaret (Kearny) Healey. She was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School and was a lifelong Waltham resident.

She began her work career at Raytheon Corporation. She later worked for over 25 years as a tour guide at The Gore Estate in Waltham before her retirement.

A talented pianist Joan was most happy when at her piano in her family living room either entertaining a room full of family and friends or playing quietly by herself. She played for many years at the Marge Gallagher Dance Studio. She was a member of St. Jude’s Church and its Sodality where she served as secretary for many years.

She leaves her husband of 58 years, Homer W. Kershner; her children, Robert W. Kershner and his wife, Joann, of Holbrook, Gale M. Schribman of Waltham, Susan E. Wilkins of Bedford, Thomas W. Kershner, Karl G. Kershner and Diane M. Kershner, all of Waltham; a sister, Ann Senarian and her husband, Alan, of Waltham; her brother-in-law, Bernard ‘John’ Neville of Waltham and seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one niece and one nephew.

Joan was the sister of the late Helen A. Neville.

Family and friends will honor and remember Joan’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. and again at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Jude Church, 147 Main Street, Waltham where her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham.

Memorial donations may be made to Autism Speaks, 1060 State Road, 2nd Floor Princeton, New Jersey 08540-1446 or to Compassionate Care Hospice, 800 West Cummings Park, Woburn, MA 01801