Joan H. Cyr

Joan H. Cyr, 93, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 10, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert A. Cyr.

Born in New Bedford, Joan was the daughter of the late Patrick and Albina (Kozaczka) Cantwell and remained a lifelong resident of the city she loved. 

Joan was a woman of deep faith and a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She never forgot a birthday and was known for her compassion, kindness, and generosity towards those less fortunate. Her warmth, thoughtfulness, and unwavering love touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A graduate of the Saint. Luke's Hospital Nursing Program in 1953, Joan later taught elementary school for several years at St. Jean Baptiste School in Fall River, now Holy Trinity School. Serving others and giving back to her community were central to her life's mission.

Joan was a member of the Third Order of the Immaculate at Our Lady's Chapel in downtown New Bedford. Alongside her husband Robert, she volunteered as an usher at the Zeiterion Theatre for more than 25 years. She was also an active member of the Polish Women's Business and Professional Club.

In her free time, Joan enjoyed playing bingo and Mahjong and loved square dancing. Her friendships extended near and far --- from her Mennonite friends in Pennsylvania to her neighbors in Fort Myers. Joan brought comfort, strength, and joy to all who knew her. She was a steadfast source of love and support for her family and was cherished by her grandchildren as "Memere." Her devotion to Jesus, prayer, the Blessed Mother, and her church guided her throughout her life and inspired those around her.

She leaves her family and friends with one of her favorite scriptures, a reflection of the faith that sustained her and the love she shared so freely.

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall make your paths straight."

Joan is survived by her loving daughter, Suzanne Wieghmink and her husband, Daniel; her sister, Janice Perry; her grandchildren, Erin Cyr-Pereira, Heather Cyr, Nichole Cyr, Rebekah Christofi, Elizabeth Carter, Jacob Fontaine, Joel Fontaine, Kelsey Glennon, Nicholas Glennon, Dakotah Wieghmink, Tristyn Wieghmink, Adam Brun, and Alan Brun; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her children, Robert Cyr, David Cyr, and Michele Fontaine; her grandson, Jonathan Fontaine; and her brother, Patrick Cantwell.

Family and friends are invited to attend Joan's funeral Mass on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Neumann Church. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Arrangements are with Machnowski Funeral Home.

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