Joan Alva Kennedy Martin, 84, of Smithfield passed away on June 10, 2021, due to health complications. Born in Troy, N.Y., to John and Lila Alvaretta (Warner) Kennedy, Joan was raised in Arlington, Mass., where she met her one and only love, Richard Theodore “Ted” Martin. They were married for 61 years and have now been reunited in heaven.

Joan is survived by her “Four Girls” and two sons-in-law: Susan (Martin) Hudson and Brian, Lynn Martin, Kris (Martin) Kent and Jonathan and Cynthia Martin. She also has a dear sister-in-law, Marion Kennedy, and a lifelong friend from elementary school, Marge Bernard. Joan was a wonderful home maker, always making sure she evenly provided enough for everyone, including the many friends of her daughters who considered Joan and Ted their second parents. She enjoyed journaling, was an accomplished knitter, loved the Boston Celtics and traveling with Ted and was a devoted friend to many. She was a Licensed Practical Nurse specializing in geriatric care by trade, yet was most proud of her role as “Gramma” to Tyler (and Melisa), Troy (and Kristen), Kendra, Emily, Austin and Connor and “Great Gramma” to Jolene. She was thrilled by the news of her expected great-grandson, Hunter Brian Hudson, due in October, her birth month.

After moving several times for employment while raising their busy family, Joan and Ted left New Hampshire to make their retirement nest at The Villas of Smithfield. They made several wonderful, caring friends and enjoyed their social time at the clubhouse. Joan was especially fond of her Dominos Group and her two “sisters,” Betty and Joan. She had an infectious laugh, an interesting life and always said she should have written a book. Her good-natured way of seeing the best in everyone would have filled the pages with humor even through times of trouble and sorrow. Joan will long be remembered as a strong and caring woman.

A celebration of life service and reception in her honor will be held later this summer.