Joan M. Vann

Joan Mary Vann (nee Platt) of Lake Ronkonkoma, NY, passed away on December 7, 2020, in her 83rd year. Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Jim Vann. She was the loving mother of Jim (Sandy), John (Maria), Jeanie (Mike), Kevin (Kerry), and Elizabeth (Ed). Cherished grandmother of Heather, Kevin, Jr., Meghan, Brian, Spencer, James, Donovan, Daniel, Colleen, Declan, Edison, and Brayden.

The love of her life was her husband, Jim.  They adored each other and enjoyed each other’s company. Family was their most precious treasure. They went on many adventures together, but mostly, they laughed.  Jim’s sense of humor was unparalleled – and Joan was his best audience.

Joan and Jim grew up in the Bronx, and married on September 12, 1959.  They moved to Lake Ronkonkoma in 1966, where they raised their five children.  Joan worked for the IRS for many years, before retiring with Jim.  They enjoyed spending time together at their camper in Lake Wakonda, NY.  Aside from spending time with Jim, Joan’s greatest joy was being with her family, especially her 12 grandchildren.  (aka: the Dirty Dozen).

Joan was a devout Catholic and a dedicated parishioner of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY, for over 50 years.  She volunteered for many community services, such as Meals on Wheels, the parish soup kitchen, and the crochet club, where she donated her crafts to those in need.  She supported numerous charities, mostly supporting children in need.

To know Joan was to love Joan.  Known for her unwavering kindness and infectious smile, she truly left an impact on all who knew her.  When you walked through her door, she was genuinely happy to see you. She made people feel good about themselves.

She was adored by her children and always had an open door, and heart, for their friends.  The value of family was instilled in all.  She was an incredible role model in every way imaginable, teaching people how to love one another and how to treat others.

Her grandchildren cherished the time spent with their grandmother. They started out in their favorite spot, Grandma’s lap. Then they moved to playing on the floor with blocks and toy cars. Then came puzzles and cards. Through every stage of life she demonstrated an unwavering patience and there was never a moment spent without smiles and laughs. When it was time for a break, her grandchildren could count on her to have the pantry stocked up with Oreos and Chips Ahoy cookies. Even as they grew up, a trip to say hi to Grandma always included cookies and chocolate milk. All 12 of them knew exactly what to expect as they walked through her door—a warm smile, open arms and a genuine joy to see them.

Visitation will be at Moloney’s Lake Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 132 Ronkonkoma Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma, NY on Tuesday, December 15 from 5:00-8:00pm.  Funeral Mass will be Wednesday, December 16 at 10:00AM at St. Joseph’s R.C. Church, Ronkonkoma, NY. Interment will be on Friday, December 18 at 12:00pm at Calverton National Cemetery.

In light of the current health concerns, we understand that all who would like to pay their respects may not be able to join us. The family plans on hosting a Celebration of Life for Joan at a time when we can all gather together.   Donations may be made in Joan’s honor to Christian Appalachian Project online using this standard online donation form , or by calling 866-270-4227 or via mail to:

Christian Appalachian Project
Attn: Honors and Memorials
PO Box 55911
Lexington, Kentucky 40555-5911