Jo-Ann Shirer

Jo-Ann (Donahoe) Shirer, 75, of Manchester, died Friday (December 9, 2011) at home after a long struggle with a variety of health issues. Her final journey was eased by the comforting presence of her devoted family and beloved cats.

She leaves behind her husband of 52 years, Kim H. Shirer; daughters, Kathleen Shirer of Centerville, MA and Patricia Epstein of South Windsor and Manchester; and grandsons Isaac, Gabriel, and Nathan Epstein of South Windsor. Jo-Ann was born in Norwich, CT on March 11, 1936, the daughter of Joseph M. Donahoe and Mary (Woods) Donahoe.

She grew up in Baltic and graduated from Norwich Free Academy and Willimantic State Teachers' College. Jo-Ann taught first grade briefly in East Hartford before marrying and becoming a full-time wife and mother. She later returned to work and helped countless students with her patient, caring manner during the 25 years she served as a paraprofessional in the Manchester school system.

Jo-Ann loved children and animals. Her favorite place to be was home with her family and pets. She relished her role as 'Gramma' and nourished her grandsons with much love and affection. She spent many childhood summers at the Rhode Island shore, and the beach remained a favorite destination over the years. Jo-Ann loved going to the movies and plays, especially musicals. Simple pleasures made her happy: sharing an order of fried clams with her girls at Misquamicut, supper at Shady Glen, a ride out to the Ellington airport with Kim to watch the skydivers, an evening at home on the couch with a good show on television and a purring cat on her lap. Mostly she enjoyed doing for others; bringing happiness to her family and friends was her ultimate joy. She will be forever in our hearts and remembered for her gentle and selfless spirit.

In addition to her husband, daughters, and grandsons, she is survived by sisters, Sheila Connell of Norfolk, Virginia and Catharine Smith of Destin, FL; and brother, Michael Donahoe of Agawam, MA. The family would like to thank Karen, the wonderful caregiver who brought much comfort and peace of mind to Jo-Ann during her final weeks, as well as the dedicated staff of Vitas Hospice, who provided us with guidance and reassurance through difficult times.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Neuropathy Association, Inc., 60 E. 42nd St. Ste # 942, New York, NY 10165 (www.neuropathy.org), The Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org) or the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Rd, Newington, CT 06111 (www.cthumane.org)

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