Joanne Mahan

Joanne (Avitabile) Mahan

It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Joanne (Avitabile) Mahan, who passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Joanne was the daughter of Carmella and Patrizio Avitabile. She graduated from South Boston High School and lived a life defined by kindness, laughter, and devotion to her family and friends.

Sharing 61 years with her beloved husband, Paul Mahan, they built a beautiful life in Brockton, Massachusetts, creating a home where family and friends always felt welcomed.

Joanne began her career as a licensed cosmetologist before retiring as a Customer Service Representative with Guardian Life Insurance. While she took pride in her work, her greatest joy and life’s purpose was her family.

Joanne was a devoted mother of Tracy (Renee) Deley-Mahan of Norton; Paul Mahan, Jr. of Brockton; and Kelly (Charlie) Fruzzetti of Hanson. Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Barbie, whose memory she carried in her heart every day.

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren Krystal, Courtney, Alexis, Spencer, Quinn, Jennifer, and Michael, and great-grandchildren Travis, Kallie, Sofia, Leo and Fox. Each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in her heart, proudly displaying photographs of them throughout her home.

Joanne is also survived by her loving brother, Nicholas Avitabile, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, Louis Avitabile, and her sister, Patricia (Avitabile) Cairns.

Joanne’s greatest gift was the remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. She also had a playful spirit that made her unforgettable, joking around and sticking her tongue out at people with a mischievous smile, a gesture she continued to the very end. Her honesty, humor, and authenticity were part of what made her so special.

She loved playing Bingo, trying her luck at the slot machines, crocheting, and collecting Precious Moments figurines and angels. She and Paul especially enjoyed their trips to Las Vegas, as well as visiting local restaurants together.

Anyone who knew Joanne knew that the kitchen was where her love truly came to life. She was an exceptional cook, famous for her Sunday dinners and unforgettable holiday meals. No one ever left her table hungry.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that her love will continue to live on through the family she cherished. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, Belmont Street, Brockton, Massachusetts. Family and friends are invited to gather again on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home for a brief memorial service to honor and celebrate Joanne’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations in Joanne’s memory to a cancer charity of your choice.