Joanne T. (Hayes) Mullen of South Yarmouth passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on January 9, 2021. She was 81. She was the wife of John (Jack) for over 60 years. Joanne was born and grew up in Medford, the daughter of the late Joseph and Catherine (Sullivan) Hayes. Joanne was a graduate Medford High School and went on to earn a certificate in Licensed Practical Nursing. She worked St Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester for a number of years.

Upon moving to Cape Cod, Joanne was a successful business owner in real estate and photo/video stores. Joanne refused to retire and spent the last 20 years working at TJMaxx where she will be remembered for working the jewelry counter.

Joanne was the matriarch of the family. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, neighbor, co-worker and friend. She was kind to all she met. Joanne’s sense of humor, courage, caring and generous heart ensured her a very special place in the lives of all she touched. She had a smile that lit up the room.

Joanne’s greatest joy was her family. She loved raising her children and spending time with her grandkids all the while laughing and spoiling them. There are many cherished memories of holidays and other gatherings shared together. Her children will remember her sayings “one day at a time”, “we will cross that bridge when we get to it” and ‘tomorrow”. She will be loved and missed.

Joanne was a mother who was always there when you needed her and will be greatly missed. In addition, to her husband, Joanne is survived by her son, John F. Mullen III and his wife, Lisa of Lexington; her daughter Kathy LaPan of South Yarmouth; her daughter, Patricia M. Sardnola and her husband Robert of Shrewsbury; her son Joseph H. Mullen of South Yarmouth; her daughter, Maureen C. Hayes and her husband David W. Lawson of Kansas City MO; eight grandchildren, Sarah, Matthew, Emily of South Yarmouth, Colleen, John of Lexington; Christopher, Katie and Patricia of Kansas City MO; and her sister Phyllis V. Casper of St Paul MN.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 16 in St Pius X Church, Station Ave., South Yarmouth. A private Interment will follow in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.

Even though I haven't seen Joann in many years, I miss her. She was a wonderful neighbor and friend.