Joan Marie Garvey

Joan Marie Garvey, age 78, of Shelton, CT, passed away March 19, 2025 in her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Bridgeport, CT, daughter of the late Martin and Josephine Swetts. Joan graduated from St. Vincent's Hospital School of Nursing in 1970 and spent the majority of her career providing care to the geriatric population.  Over the years spanning her career, Joan touched the lives of countless patients, staff, and families, having served as the Director of Nurses at Golden Heights Manor, Cambridge Manor and then ultimately retiring as the Director of Nursing from St. Joseph’s Manor.  She was a compassionate, warm person loved by all who knew her, and her gentle, caring nature was effortless both in her career and personal life.  Joan was a lover of the ocean and enjoyed many relaxing family vacations at the beach-it was her happy place.  She loved reading and collected hundreds of cookbooks finding great joy in preparing homemade meals for her family, especially during the holidays.  In her leisure time, Joan enjoyed making jigsaw puzzles and watching various cooking shows, however her greatest joy in life was spending time with her family sharing memories, stories, offering guidance and support, and laughing together.

Survivors include her devoted children Sandra Podany and her husband Gerald of Shelton and Thomas Garvey and his wife Belinda of Naugatuck, CT; her sister Marcia Veray and her husband John of FL; her brother Thomas Swetts and his wife Cherie of Waterbury CT, three cherished grandchildren Paul Podany, Lauren Podany and Jeremiah Garvey, and several nieces and nephews. 

Friends and family are invited to attend her funeral Mass on Friday, March 28, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Church, 505 Shelton Ave. Shelton, CT.  At Joan’s request, there will be no calling hours.         

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Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent's Hospital School of Nursing.

Arrangements in care of the Cyril F. Mullins Funeral Home, 399 White Plains Rd. Trumbull, CT.
For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.mullinsfh.com

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