Obituary of Joan Roach

Joan Neverdousky Roach, devoted wife and mother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on January 6, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Victoria Neverdousky. Joan, affectionately referred to as Nev for her more than 60 years of marriage, exemplified what it was to be a kind human being every day of her life.

Joan will be lovingly remembered by her family, including children, Tim (Ann), Molly Sullivan (Ed), Sheila O'Brien (Shawn), John (Carmela), Meaghan Berry (Tim), Nora Ford (Sean), Stephen (Natalie), and Sam (Vathana); Her Grandchildren: Conor, Brian, Molly, Joe, Katie, Nora, Meaghan, Chris, Caitlin, Kevin, Mack, Aidan, Julia, Siobhan, Kate, Luke, Talia, Molly, Derek; Her Great Grandchildren: James, Nolan, Bennett and Quinn; Her brother-in law, Thomas; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, Joan was recently predeceased by her loving husband, Dr. James P. Roach; her In Laws, Stephen and Molly Roach; her son, Edward; her sister, Doris Riebe; and her nephew, Matthew.

Joan was a "Lauralton Lovely" when she met her future husband, Jim. After completing her four years at Lauralton Hall, Joan pursued further education at St. Vincent's Nursing School. She graduated with an Associate Degree in Nursing and thrived in her career for over 40 years. Joan was first employed at St. Vincent's Hospital in Bridgeport before joining her husband at Greater Bridgeport Urology. In the urology office, Joan worked closely with her late husband, Dr. Roach, and welcomed countless patients - weekdays, weekends, early mornings, or evenings - with the sole aim of aiding those in need. Joan and Jim's marriage spanned almost 64 years, a testament to their shared love and gratitude.

While Joan's nursing career was remarkable, she considered her greatest achievement to be her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Fondly known as Nanny by her numerous grandchildren, Joan committed her life to ensuring all her children felt loved and never hungry. She was always ready to feed even the largest of crowds. Together, Joan and Jim opened their home to innumerable family members and friends, providing them with a place to stay, food to eat, or a game of pinochle, with their kitchen always welcoming visitors. Joan distributed her love equally among her children and grandchildren, offering special, unconditional love to her son with special needs, Edward.

Joan was well recognized for her service to others, including from her alma maters. She was the proud recipient of the Claven Award from Lauralton Hall and served as a board member for St. Vincent's College. Together, Jim and Joan received recognitions from several charities they served, including St. Vincent's Medical Center and St. Vincent's Special Needs Center.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday (September 24th) from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, 1209 Post Road, in Fairfield Center. Joan's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday (September 25th) at 11:00 a.m. directly at Saint Ann's Church in Black Rock - a church she frequented daily and where she has observed countless baptisms, weddings, and funerals. A private interment will take place in Oak Lawn Cemetery on Tuesday.

In her memory, Joan's family would prefer memorial contributions to St. Vincent's Special Needs Services, https://hartfordhealthcare.org/services/special-needs-services/donate. For travel directions or to sign her online register book, please visit www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com