Joan M. Roderick, 89, of Provincetown died on Dec. 19, 2020 at Seashore Point Wellness Center in Provincetown. She was the widow of James J. Roderick Sr., who died in 2001.
Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Yvonne Fitzpatrick. Joan was raised in Orleans, proudly graduating from Orleans High School in 1949. She worked for many years at Howard Johnson’s in Orleans, where she met her future husband, Jimmy. They married in 1950 and moved to Provincetown. There, she managed the office of the family business, James J. Roderick, Inc., where she became known as the “nice lady who answered the phone” at the rubbish and septic service.
Joan was well known for her kindness. Her home was always open to nephews, nieces, and friends who wanted to share a meal, or spend a summer in Provincetown. For many years she was a frequent visitor at the former Cape End Manor (now Seashore Point), keeping loved ones company, and making sure their needs were met. She was an active member of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, and found a great deal of comfort in the church.
Weekends in the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s were spent with friends and family at Hatches Harbor. Joan volunteered for many organizations over the years, and was secretary of the Provincetown Fire Dept. while her husband, Jimmy, served as the fire chief.
Joan was also a diehard Red Sox fan. “She was very giving and loving, and she never had a bad word to say about anything — except maybe the Yankees,” said her daughter, Jane.
Joan is survived by her daughter, Jane Roderick, and partner Susan Brink, and by sons Jim Roderick and wife Nancy and Steven Roderick. She is also survived by granddaughters Phoebe and wife Jen Hamilton, Lucy and husband Chris McKernan, and Stephanie Jane Roderick; and by great-grandchildren Silas Hamilton, Willow Hamilton, Marlee Jo McKernan, and Cora McKernan. She also leaves a brother, Paul Fitzpatrick, and sister-in-law, Kathy Fitzpatrick; a cousin, Margie Masella; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Joan’s family expressed thanks to the staff at Seashore Point for the care, concern, and comfort they gave Joan while she was a resident there.
Due to safety concerns related to the Covid virus, a Funeral Mass at St. Peter the Apostle Church will be scheduled in the spring, at a time and date to be announced. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Cemetery.
Donations in Joan’s memory may be made to Helping Our Women, 34 Conwell St., Provincetown 02657.
To share a memory or leave an online condolence for the family, visit gatelyfuneralservice.com.
