Joan M. McGowan

Dr. Joan McGowan passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025,  in Concord, Massachusetts.

Born in Boston, Joan was a lifelong learner with a deep commitment to education. She graduated from Boston Girls’ Latin School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Emmanuel College. She received her master’s degree from the University of Vermont and later earned her doctorate in Learning and Teaching with a focus on mathematics.

Joan devoted her professional life to higher education and academic leadership. She served as Assistant Dean at Bunker Hill Community College and later retired from Salem State University, where she was Dean of Planning and Information.

Beyond her career, Joan had many interests that brought her joy, including painting, gardening, cooking, and travel. She especially loved traveling with her late partner of more than 50 years, Leah Knowlton, to Hawaii, a place that held a special place in her heart and where they shared many happy memories with close friends.

In her later years, Joan greatly enjoyed her time at Newbury Court, where she formed many meaningful friendships and was an active and valued member of the community.

Joan is survived by her nieces, Debbie Connolly and Tricia Hayes.

A spiritual celebration of Joan’s life will be held on January 19, 2026,  at 11:00 a.m. in Duval Chapel, 80 Deaconess Road, Concord, MA. Burial at Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, will be private and held at a later date.

Joan will be remembered for her intellect, generosity of spirit, and the many lives she touched as an educator, colleague, friend, and partner.