NEW SALEM, MA – Joan E. (Carey) Burnett, 90, of Moosehorn Road, died peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.
Born in the Moore’s Corner section of Leverett on December 2, 1935 at the home of Ralph and Vera Carey, she was the daughter of William A. and Evelyn M. (Groves) Carey and graduated from New Salem Academy.
On August 5, 1952, Joan married Harold “Tillie” Burnett Sr. and was predeceased by him.
Joan was employed by the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the Infirmary, later transferring to Housekeeping before retiring. She previously had worked at the Orange Pants Shop as well as doing private housekeeping in Amherst.
Joan enjoyed traveling and had visited Germany, France, Hawaii, Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Florida. She also loved her sports including NASCAR, New England Patriots, the Red Sox, Celtics and UMass basketball, along with playing bingo and cards.
Joan is survived by sons, Harold “Zeke” Burnett Jr. and Mark Burnett (Sherri-Ann); daughters, Marilyn “Susie” Canon (Jim Sr.) and Kara Swan (Jeff Matosky); grandchildren, Jeremy Burnett (Jessie), Joshua Burnett (Kelly), Johnathon Burnett (Rebecca), James Canon Jr. (Laura), Mark Burnett (Amy), Darcee Clemenzi, Sam Williams (Kate),Charles Williams (Sarah), Ryan Swan, and Karine Swan (Samantha Jo); great grandchildren, Cameron, Nicholas and Bella Burnett, Joey, Jordan, Julian and Kaia Burnett, Grace and Isabella Canon, Allyson and Mia Burnett, Olivia and Gavin Clemenzi, Nathaniel Trude, Madelynn Bowers, Haylee Hall and Kayden Swan; a great, great grandson, Sammy Williams; brothers, Robert Carey (Sylvia) and Ricky Carey; sisters, Jean Sweeney, Karen Fairman, and Kathy Boron (David); and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
There are no calling hours.
A graveside service will be held on June 6, 2026 at 11 a.m., at Plainview Cemetery, 195 North Leverett Road, Leverett.
A celebration of life will follow at the Shutesbury Athletic Club, 282 Wendell Road, Shutesbury.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
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