Obituary of Joan R. Smullen

Joan R. Smullen, 81, of Gloversville, passed away on Thursday, November 3, 2016 at Ellis Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 13, 1935 in Gloversville, she was the only child of the late Howard and Ruth Rowley Reynolds. A lifelong resident of the area, Joan was a 1953 graduate of Gloversville High School. On April 9, 1955 Joan married her loving husband of 61 years, Richard Smullen. They lived in Maryland and Pennsylvania during Richard's service in the U.S. Army. Subsequently, they lived and worked in the Gloversville area before settling down to build a house in Meco. In 1966, they moved to 307 Willie Road where they lived for the last 50 years. Joan raised two children, Susan and Robert, among their good neighbors on the Willie Road, while also assisting in the Smullen family masonry contracting business, H. Smullen and Sons, Inc. She also served as the Deputy Supervisor alongside her husband, Richard, for the Town of Johnstown for over 15 years. Joan was a proud and active member of the local community, chaperoning many school trips, as well as being a member of the Meco Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary. She was a happy member of the Bleecker Fish and Game Club and a life member of the Concordia Club. She was famously reliable for her macaroni and cheese side dish at community gatherings, as well as hosting a memorable Christmas Eve party for family and friends. She enjoyed an active outdoor life with her family, including the Adirondack Beagle and Hare Club, the Pinnacle Mountain Ridge Runners and travel throughout the United States. In her later years, she became a huge NASCAR fan and a terrific grandmother. Besides her husband Rich, Joan is survived by her son, Robert Smullen (Megan); daughter, Susan Smullen (Monique O'Grady); grandchildren, Molly Smullen, Haley Smullen, Lily Smullen, A.J. Smullen, Garrett O'Grady and Bailey O'Grady. Many cousins from her mother's family also survive. The family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, November 7, 2016 at the Walrath and Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville from 4pm until 7pm. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at 10am, with Dr. Rev. R.W. Williams presiding. Burial will follow in Ferndale Cemetery, Johnstown. Continued fellowship will be held immediately after the graveside ceremony at the Concordia Club. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Joan's name can be made to the Meco Volunteer Fire Department, 473 Co. Hwy. 122, Gloversville, NY, 12078. Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com