Joan C. Robinson

In Loving Memory of Joan Carol Robinson With great love and deep sorrow, we celebrate the life of Joan Carol Robinson, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who passed peacefully surrounded by and holding the hands of her loving family. Born on April 12, 1940, in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, Joan was the daughter of the late David J. Menard and Blanche E. Decorie Menard. She spent her early years in Wilbraham, where she developed the deep love of family that would remain central to her life. As a young woman, Joan moved briefly to Florida and then Connecticut, first settling in Enfield for over 60 years before making her final resting place in Somers. In her younger years, Joan was known for her perfectly teased French twist and remembered dearly as the favorite waitress at Howard Johnsons, Friendly's, and TJ's. She was admired for her dedication to her grandchildren who would sometimes pretend they were "sick" just to spend the day with grandma! Joan loved to read, cook (in particular, lasanga that cannot be recreated) and paint ceramics. She enjoyed playing cards both online with friends and in person with family where friendly competition, laughter, and storytelling always filled the room. With a crochet hook nearby, she lovingly crafted blankets, sweater sets, bonnets, and hair scrunchies. Those simple yet meaningful moments were a reflection of who she was - funny, spirited, and happiest when surrounded by those she loved. She was predeceased by her caring parents, and sisters Ruthie, Shirely, and Alice, all of whom she cherished dearly and was hopeful of reuniting with in Heaven. Joan's greatest joy was undoubtedly her family. She is survived by her beloved spouse, James Rinaldi of 61 years, two sisters Pearl and Phyllis, and four children: Sharon Grimes, Cynthia Cote and husband Jim, James Robinson, and Lisa Robinson. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Anthony Sevarino, Mark Grimes, Shaina Martin and husband Rene, Michael DeJesus and wife Viviana, Franky DeJesus and wife Liz, Jessica DeJesus-Kumiega and husband Anthony, Cheristy Robinson, Robert Benjamin and wife Emma, Brandon Benjamin, Travis Defranzo, and James Defranzo. Joan was also blessed with 15 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her later years. Joan leaves behind several nieces and nephews, and many life-long friends. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in the many memories we shared with her and trust that she will forever surround us.