SOUTH GLENS FALLS – Joan (Shaw) McKinney, 85, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Sunday, September 26, 2021. She fought courageously for over 30 years with Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia and most recently with heart disease.
Born on June 10, 1936 in Glens Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Mildred (Rousseau) Shaw. “Joanie”, as many called her, grew up in Fort Edward.
Growing up, she took pleasure in the simple things; singing, playing piano, helping her mother in the garden, and spending summer days in the sun with her friends at Hadlock Pond.
Joan was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church in Fort Edward, later joining the church community of St. Michael The Archangel in South Glens Falls. Joan’s faith was very important to her and guided her throughout life.
Joan graduated from Fort Edward High School as Valedictorian of her class in 1954. She went on to graduate, Magna Cum Laude, from The College of Saint Rose in 1958 with a degree in Elementary Education. Joan began her 30 plus year teaching career teaching kindergarten at Moreau Elementary School, then taught First Grade at Burgoyne Ave Elementary in Hudson Falls for the majority of those years until retirement. In her classroom, she taught with compassion, patience, and adoration for all her students.
Joan married David McKinney on August 2, 1958. They had four children during their marriage, and were blessed with nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
Family time, holidays, and special occasions were always important to her and she made sure all were celebrated with her own style and flair! She absolutely loved being ‘Grandma’, ‘Gaga’, ‘Gram’ and looked forward to ‘any’ and ‘all’ time she spent with her grandchildren.
Joan is predeceased by her Grandson, David “D.J.” Gorrie who resided with her the last ten years. They enjoyed many in depth conversations about life along with watching and cheering for their favorite Boston Red Sox and Dallas Cowboys teams. We are comforted in knowing they are together again.
Left to cherish her memory are David McKinney and their four children, Stephen (Maureen) McKinney, Anne McKinney, Brian(Shelly) McKinney, and Karen (Rich) Lancette; eight grandchildren, Brooke, Nick, Jason, Michael, Ryan, Brianna, Kristyn and Megan; two great grandchildren, Blakely and Madison; several nieces, nephews and several longtime friends, who all were very special to her.
Visiting hours for family and friends are scheduled for Saturday, October 2, 2021 from 11 AM to 1 PM at St. Michael The Archangel Church, 80 Saratoga Ave South Glens Falls, NY 12803
Her Funeral Mass will follow at 1 PM on Saturday, at the church.
Followed by the Rite of Committal at St. Joseph’s Cemetery Burgoyne Ave. Fort Edward, NY 12828
In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations appreciated to the following, C.R. Wood Cancer Center, 100 Park St., Glens Falls, NY 12801, American heart Association, 4 Atrium Dr #100, Albany, NY 12205.
Joan’s family would like to thank Dr. Hoffman and his staff at the C.R. Wood Cancer Center, Dr. Munro at Adirondack Cardiology and his staff and Dr. Coppens and his staff at Irongate Family Practice for all their care and compassion.
Arrangements under the direction of the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. 68 Main St. Hudson Falls, NY 12839.
Steve , Maureen and entire McKinney family I am so sorry to read about your loss. Our thoughts are with you during this time.
Kibby and Michele French.
Dave,
It has been a few years since I have seen or spoken with you but seeing Joan’s passing brought back memories from The Yankee Doodle when I met both you and Joan. Just wanted you to know how much I respected you both and am saddened to learn of her passing. She will be remembered for many accomplishments, especially her career as a teacher!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!!
Donna & Mike Graham
Our sincerest condolences to the entire family. Joan was such a kind, warm and caring woman who touched so many lives. Been praying for her and everyone as she battled Waldenstroms disease and yet she continued to stay strong and positive through it all. You all have endured so much and please know we are there for you and you are never alone.
We love you all and sending hugs and our support your way.
With warmest regards,
The Nelson/Tomashefsky Familes
Dear Dave and Family,
Many years since knowing the wonderful family and teaching with Joan at Burgoyne Ave. School. What a warm, caring teacher and colleague, an excellent educator and a wonderful professional. She will be missed and remembered by many.
I have services from 9:30-12:30 on Sat. with Dr. Hoffman and others therefore I might not be able to make the calling hours or the Mass. My prayers and caring thoughts are there with family and friends. With peace and love, Bonnie Yanklowitz
Joan/Joanie was so proud of her family!!! I did not want to leave that extremely important part of her life out. Again, my prayers of peace and love to the family, friends and school groups who knew this special lady.
My sincere condolences on the loss of your Mom,
Joan was a wonderful woman who always put her family first. She fought a courageous battle. May she rest in peace. My condolences to your entire family. I know how much you will all miss her.