Obituary of Joan M. DeLuca

Joan Marie DeLuca (née Dolan), loving wife and mother, passed away peacefully on December 24, having lived a wonderful life.

Joan was born on May 9, 1931, in Stamford, Connecticut and grew up in Darien, graduating as Salutatorian from Darien High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with Honors from Southern Connecticut State University and a Master of Science degree and a Sixth-Year degree in Education Administration from Fairfield University.

It was through teaching at Belltown Elementary School that she met the love of her life, music teacher Frederick DeLuca. Joan and Fred, who preceded her in death, married and raised their family in Stamford, living there for more than 60 years. Joan also taught fourth and fifth grade at Our Lady Star of the Sea School until retirement. 

Joan enjoyed traveling around the world with her husband and vacationing with her family. She actively supported St. Cecilia’s Church and AARP and served on committees for both organizations. She also enjoyed her exercise class, outings with friends, Broadway shows, and celebrations at the Stamford Yacht Club. 

Joan loved spending time with her family. She leaves her daughters and sons-in-law Debra and David Young of Clarksville, Maryland and Kathleen and Gerald Fox III of Stamford as well as five grandchildren who adored her and lit up her life, Christopher, Brennan, Meghan, Kelly, and Sean.

There will be a private Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Joan’s life at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church and interment at St. John Cemetery, Darien. Donations in her memory may be made to the Bennett Cancer Center.  Arrangements are under the direction of Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home 104 Myrtle Ave Stamford, CT(203)-359-9999 . To send condolences to the family, please visit www.gallagherfuneralhome.com