Joan A. McNamara, a beloved member of the Marion community, passed away on August 22, 2025, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, at the age of 97. Born on December 5, 1927, in Franklin Township, Grant County, Indiana, Joan lived a life marked by dedication to her family and service to her community.
Joan's career included serving as a bookkeeper at McNamara Service Station and spending ten years working in the pantry at St. Martins. Her contributions to these establishments were valued, reflecting her work ethic and commitment.
A faithful member of St. Paul Catholic Church, Joan was well-known for her strong family orientation. Her family always came first, and she was recognized as a great mother and grandmother. Joan’s legacy is cherished by her loving children: Chris McNamara, Avie (Paul) Frayer, and Suzi (Tom) Kemp. She was a proud grandmother to Julie (Scott) Piller, Jessica (Brad) Riggins, Jennifer (Dan) Frayer-Griggs, Jamie Frayer, Jonathan (Jamie) Frayer, Joseph Frayer, Jillian (Thomas) Christenson, Christopher (Deia) McNamara, Carissa Camacho, Benjamin Kamp, Chelsea (Brent) Maiberger, and she leaves behind seventeen great-grandchildren.
In addition to her family, Joan was actively involved in her community and enjoyed participating in various social clubs such as the Meshingomesia Country Club and the Elks Country Club. Among her interests, she loved baking pies, enjoyed bowling, and had fond memories of golfing in her younger years.
Joan is preceded in death by her husband, William Carr "Bud" McNamara, who passed on June 30, 2014, as well as her parents, William J. Smith and Marie Smith, and her brother, Wendell Smith. She also mourned the loss of her grandson, Jacob Paul Frayer.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Joan's life during visitation on September 5, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Paul Catholic Church, followed by a Mass of Christiam Burial at 11:00 AM. The church is located at 1009 West Kem Road, Marion, IN, 46952.
Joan A. McNamara's spirit and love for her family will remain an enduring presence in their lives, as she fostered meaningful connections that transcended generations.
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Make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Joan A. McNamara