Joan Lemmon

Joan Irene Lemmon (née Gammache), age 93, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, in Portland, Oregon. Born on July 2, 1932, in Wilmington, Delaware, Joan lived a life marked by love, resilience, and devotion to her family and faith.

Joan began her career as a registered nurse in the 1950s, dedicating over three decades to caring for others until her retirement in the late 1980s. Alongside her professional life, she embraced the challenges and joys of being a military wife with grace and strength. After the untimely passing of her husband, William Bradley Lemmon ("Bill"), in 1971 during his military service, Joan raised their four children with unwavering determination and love.

A devout Catholic throughout her life, Joan found strength and solace in her faith. She remained an active member of her church community, attending Mass and praying the Rosary until her final days. Her faith was a guiding force through both joyful and challenging times.

Joan’s love for travel began during her years as an Air Force wife and continued long after her children were grown. She cherished exploring new places and creating lasting memories with loved ones. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, from knitting gifts for family to enjoying Taco Tuesdays with friends and savoring wine tastings during her travels. Joan also enjoyed swimming and treasured time spent with those she held dear.

Joan is survived by her loving children: Catherine Lemmon Kearney; William Bradley Lemmon (wife Vikki); Karen Jean Smith (husband Robert); and Cynthia Grace Lemmon (husband Chris Hitchcock). She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and great-grandmother to two. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family who will remember her fondly.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Bill; longtime companion Robert Painter; son-in-law Robert Kearney; brothers Robert Gammache and Louis Gammache; and mother Florence Gammache Brinton.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 29, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Laurel Parc @ Bethany Village, 15850 NW Central Dr., Portland. A Requiem Mass will follow on March 30 at 11:00AM at San Juan Diego Catholic Church followed by a short reception.
A private graveside service will take place in Sacramento, California, in April.

Joan’s life was defined by resilience, love, and faith. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.