Joan M. (McGuinness) Markman, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the age of 90. Born and raised in Brooklyn,
NY, Joan was a proud graduate of St. Savior High School. She began her professional journey with McGraw-Hill Publishing Company, where she dedicated over 30 years of her life, retiring as a Senior Sales Support Coordinator, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues and clients alike until her retirement in 2006.
An active and devoted member of St. Gregory the Great RC Church, Joan was an integral part of the community. For over 30 years, she contributed her time and spirit as a member of the Altar Rosary Society and served as a Eucharistic Minister, touching the lives of many with her unwavering faith and compassionate heart.
Joan embodied selflessness and positivity, starting each day with a smile and a genuine commitment to spreading joy. Her nurturing nature shone through her love of gardening. As a longtime member and Past President of the Rocky Brook Garden Club, she shared her love for nature and community. Her warm spirit extended beyond her family and friends; she often volunteered her time, offering companionship to the elderly and homebound well into her late 80s.
Above all, Joan’s greatest joy came from her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children and especially, her beautiful grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy and laughter to her life. She will be remembered not just for her remarkable contributions to her family and community, but for the love, kindness, and grace she shared with everyone she met. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who loved and knew her.
Predeceased by her parents, Peter and Nora (Griffin) McGuinness and her eight siblings; she is survived by her children and their spouses, Paul and Susan Markman of Galloway, Mary Markman of Robbinsville, Gail and Pete Barna of Hainesport, Ken and Marylou Markman of Waldwick and Jeanne and Britt Reid of Robbinsville; her grandchildren and their spouses/life-partners, Bill and Molly, Jennifer and Joe, Kelly and Paul, Sarah and Brian, Peter and Eva, Jake and Maiko, Joe, Mike, Rashawn, Yasmin, Britt, Elizabeth, and Tommy; her great-grandchildren, Addison, Theodore, Brayden, Charlie and Mina; and her many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and extended family members.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Gregory the Great RC Church, 4620 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ 08690.
A Memorial Gathering for family and friends will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. at St. Gregory the Great RC Church.
Cremation was held privately.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joan’s memory to the charity she has supported throughout her life: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ.
