Joan Marie Gerrity of Manchester died with grace and dignity after a valiant struggle with cancer in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Chicago, IL, the youngest of six children to John and Catherine McCarthy. Joan leaves an exemplary legacy as a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will be deeply missed by all. During her lifetime she gave most generously of her time and talents not only to her family, but also to a number of community organizations. For over 25 years, Joan enjoyed her time serving as a member of The Ladies of St. James, East Catholic Football Boosters and the Manchester Scholarship Foundation. Additionally, she volunteered her time at the Manchester Hospital Auxiliary Gift Shop as well as The Penny Saver. Joan joins her beloved and devoted husband, James M. Gerrity Sr. who passed away almost 18 years ago. She is survived by her six children and their spouses, James Jr. and Patricia Gerrity, Kevin and Donna Gerrity, Daniel and Lisa Gerrity, Kathryn and Edward Sullivan, Joan Desautels, John and Cynthia Gerrity as well as her 23 cherished grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Joan survived her four sisters and a brother. The Family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Angels at Home, LLC. of Ellington and the Hospice Group of the Visiting Nurse and Health Services of Connecticut, Inc. for their tender care and devotion to Joan during her final days. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 29th at 10:00 A.M. at St. James Church, 896 Main St. Manchester, followed by a Christian Burial in St. James Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 W. Center St., Manchester on Monday from 5-8 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations can be made to either The Eastern CT Cancer Institute, 100 Haynes St. Manchester, CT 06040 or the Manchester Scholarship Foundation.