Joan Marie (Barry) Henchey

Joan (Barry) Henchey, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, 86, of N. Chelmsford, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on December 11, 2022.

Born in Brighton, MA on September 26, 1936, Joan was the daughter of the late Joseph Barry and Gertrude (Savoy) Barry.

Mrs. Henchey was educated in the Woburn school system and graduated from Woburn High School with the Class of 1954.

Joan retired from Digital Equipment Corporation in 1997 where she was a facility planner. Joan was a very hard worker throughout her life and had many roles prior to Digital but none more important than raising her family.  As her girls grew, she led many 4H Horse Clubs, Girl Scout Troops and CCD Groups over the years. Joan’s bright and vibrant personality created many great memories (and laughs) for the participants in these organizations that will be a lasting testament to her legacy.

Joan was known for her zest for life, her great sense of humor and mostly for her kindness.  Over the years, her house was never too small for anyone  (person or animal) that needed a place to stay.

She is survived by her children, Elizabeth Melanson of Bolton, MA, Eileen Lundstrom and her husband Kenneth of Pepperell, MA , Joan Ellen Henchey and her husband Gene Gauthier of Ashby and was predeceased by her daughter Laura (Henchey) Harrison of North Chelmsford. She is also survived by her brother Thomas Barry  of New Jersey. She was predeceased by her brothers Joseph Barry Jr, and Richard Barry. Joan is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

At the request of her family, all funeral services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joan’s name to Newhouse Wildlife Rescue, PO Box 596, Chelmsford, MA 01824 ( www.newhousewildliferescue.org ).