Joannah M. Brunelli

Joannah Marie (Bassignani) Brunelli, 86, of Franklin, MA, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025. Born in Milford, Massachusetts on December 1, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Anna and Armetti Bassignani.
Before her marriage, Joannah worked as a teacher, beginning a lifelong dedication to education and service. On August 13, 1961, she married Robert G. Brunelli, and together they shared a remarkable life, including several years living in Milan, Italy.
Upon returning to the United States, Joannah devoted her time to her community - volunteering as a swimming instructor for Easter Seals and helping to establish a nature trail at Parmenter Elementary School in Franklin in the 1970s. She later served as a substitute teacher at Franklin High School before beginning a second career as Clerk of Courts for Norfolk County in Dedham, MA, retiring in 2016.
Joannah was an avid scuba diver and an enthusiast of all outdoor activities. She especially loved cooking, often preparing meals for family gatherings, where her warmth and generosity were felt by all.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Robert G. Brunelli; her son Robert R. Brunelli and his wife Theresa McGinn-Brunelli; her beloved grandchildren Hannah and Elizabeth Brunelli; and her sister Mary Jane Geraldi.
She was predeceased by her parents; her son James Brunelli; and her sister Brenda Bassignani.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin, 131 Main Street, Franklin, MA (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).
A funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, Franklin, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joannah's memory to either St. Vincent de Paul Society, c/o St. Mary's Church, Church Square, Franklin, MA 02038, or Friends of Franklin Elders, Inc. 10 Daniel McCahill Street, Franklin, MA 02038.