Mary Joy Hanlon

Mary Joy Hanlon, who never met a stranger and whose heart seemed big enough to hold everyone she met, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Sunnyside Retirement Community. She was born on April 29, 1940 and was a daughter of the late John and Catherine (Powers) Joy. Mary was always on the go- full of life, energy, and love. She had a way of making everyone feel seen and welcome, whether it was through her beautiful smile, a kind word, or one of her warm hugs. Family meant everything to her, and she poured her heart into every moment she spent with those she loved. Mary was deeply involved in her community and her children's lives. While her own kids attended school, she worked in the cafeteria at Bridgewater Elementary. After retiring from Marshall's Distribution Center, she returned to her beloved role, becoming the lunch lady once again-this time, for her grandchildren at John Wayland Elementary. She was a faithful member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, where her faith guided her daily life. Mary never missed a moment- she was always at every game, concert, and event, cheering and whistling louder than anyone. She was the most devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. Her love and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Mary, a dedicated mother of two sons who proudly served in the US Marine Corps, exhibited steadfast patriotism. During the Gulf War, she actively demonstrated her support by contributing hundreds of handmade yellow bows to friends, family, and the American Legion. Her love for Ireland ran deep-so much so that her license plate proudly read Irish Joy, a name that perfectly captured her spirit. She embodied joy, warmth, and a touch of Irish charm everywhere she went. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Sunnyside Retirement Community, who became Mary's family over the past year. The care and compassion she received there were truly unmatched. Although their time together was short, the family also wishes to thank First Choice Hospice for providing comfort and peace during her final days. Mary was united in marriage to Daniel W. Hanlon who preceded her in death. Mary is survived by three children, Brigid Byers & husband Kenny, Daniel Hanlon & wife Greta, and David Hanlon & wife Tiffany; four sisters, Frances Walker, Jean Mensh, Veronica Haerer, and Alice O'Dea; ten grandchildren, Cullen Byers & wife Kylie, Colleen Shank & husband Adam, Rachel Hoover & husband Wade, Seth Hanlon & fiance Elise Yi, Molly Byers, Allison Byers, Lochlain Hanlon, Ian Hanlon, Wyatt Cash, Jackson Cash; two great grandchildren, Penelope Reese Byers and Emma Joy Hoover; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Mary is also preceded in death by two sisters, Kathryn Dunmoyer and Joan Joy and three brothers, Maurice Joy, Sr., Leonard Joy and Joe Joy. A funeral mass celebrating Mary's life will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church with a reception to follow. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the Johnson Funeral & Cremation Service in Bridgewater. In lieu of flowers, financial contributions can be made to Sunnyside Retirement Community. Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary, please visit our floral store.