Joan A. Heffernan

Albany, NY-Joan A. Heffernan, 94, entered into eternal life on May 13, 2026, at home with her family at her side. Born on May 15, 1931, in Cohoes, New York to the late Philip and Beatrice Gadoua, Joan graduated from Vincentian Institute and began her career at the New York State Public Service Commission. She also worked as an office manager at the Family Rosary working for Father Peyton, which she found extremely rewarding, and later she retired as an administrative assistant at the law offices of William Toomey who together with his wife Joanne were Joan’s life-long friends. In September 1958, Joan married the love of her life, John (Jack) Heffernan and together they created a home filled with love, faith, laughter and three loving children. Joan was the best and most dedicated mother providing her children with endless love and support, she was always their biggest cheerleader, never missing a track meet, basketball game or dance recital. She was creative and made many of her children’ costumes for Halloween and she was a talented knitter making beautiful scarfs and hats. Joan was an avid crossword puzzle fan – doing the puzzle every day. She also loved to make greeting cards, sending beautiful cards made with love to family and friends. Joan treasured her two granddaughters, who brought her endless joy. Joan was a parishioner of the Church of Blessed Sacrament, and her faith guided her throughout her life and brought her great comfort in her final days. Joan is survived by her loving children, John (Joy), Gary and Kathyann; her two beautiful granddaughters Jenny (Chris) and Julia and beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Jack, her parents and her three sisters and brother. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joan’s family Sunday, May 17, 2026, at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 N. Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Please enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot entrance only. Joan’s Funeral Mass will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Church, 607 Central Avenue (Rev. John Bradley Way), Albany, NY 12206 at 10:30 am. The Rite of Committal will immediately follow the Mass in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Sister Maureen Joyce Center Food Pantry in care of Church of Blessed Sacrament. To leave a message for the family or view other helpful services please visit www.mcveighfuneralhome.com.

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Joan A. Heffernan

May 15, 1931 - May 13, 2026