Joanna Christine "Josie" Ingham

Joanna Christine Nealon Ingham "Josie" of Waban, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025 with her loving husband of 67 years, Kenneth Russell Ingham, at her side. She is survived by her sisters Janet Nealon and Christine House, her daughter Melissa, son David, four grandchildren and three wonderful great grandchildren. She will be remembered as a loving wife, sister, aunt, mother and grandmother.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, November 16th, from 2:00PM to 5:00PM at the Burke and Blackington Funeral Home in West Newton, Massachusetts located at 1479 Washington Street. A memorial service will be held the next day, Monday November 17th, at 10:30 AM also at the Burke and Blackington Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Christian Community Church, 366 Washington Street, Brookline, MA, care of Reverend Lisa Hildreth.

Joanna was born in Yonkers, New York and grew up in Bridgeport Connecticut. She became blind at the age of 19. She graduated Magna cum Laude from the University of Bridgeport. Awarded a Fulbright Scholarship, she then earned her master's degree in French literature from the University of Paris, France in 1959. Returning to the United States, Joanna settled with her husband Kenneth in the Boston area, and went on to raise three children, Elinore, Melissa and David.

Joanna was passionate and engaged in all aspects of life. Her deep sense of spirituality and strong Christian faith guided her thoughts and actions. She was kind and compassionate to all, and together with her husband, gracious and generous. Joanna was deeply involved in church life at the Christian Community in Brookline. She participated in and hosted many spiritual study groups with members and friends from the Anthroposophical Society in Greater Boston.

Joanna was a prolific poet with many publications and public reading appearances. Of note were her frequent poetry readings at prisons across Massachusetts and in local pubs, restaurants and universities. Much of her life work can be found at Amazon.com.

Though Joanna is no longer with us, we will hold her in our hearts and remember her kindness, bravery and generosity.