Joan A. Gabriel

Joan Alva Simpson Gabriel passed away peacefully at home with her son and son-in-law at her side on June 16 after an extended, difficult time at home. A 46-year resident of Norwell, Joan was very active in her local community. Joan traveled far and wide with her late husband Cas, and she cherished their trips to Hawaii the most, completely covering the entire islands of Oahu and Maui until the island roads were as familiar to her as those back in Norwell. Joan was the first in her family to earn her college degree, from Keuka College in New York. Born in Haledon, New Jersey, she loved the outdoors and became a lifeguard, a good thing having been able to save her son after he had flown off the dock in crazy excitement one afternoon as a child at Crystal Lake, a vacation spot she, Cas, and her son visited in summer on Cape Cod. In Norwell, Joan was always available for anyone that needed a hand. On an empty lot she found while driving through town in the late 60s, Joan and Cas built their own house; and, with Joans special touches, it proudly became their home. She was active gardening and helping out at fairs. But as much as Joan contributed to the community, she loved her family even more, and she made all moments at home most special. In addition to her son Glenn and her son-in-law Daniel, Joan is survived by her sister Connie and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 10 oclock on Saturday, July 23, at Church Hill United Methodist Church, 11 Church Street, Norwell. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church Hill United Methodist Church Memorial Fund or Old Colony Hospice. For directions and to sign Joan's online guest book, visit SullivanFuneralHomes.com Hanover Rockland Hanson 781-878-0920 781-293-2020 Family Owned & Operated For 5 Generations Since 1897