Dudley/Worcester: JoAnne R. (Ritacco) Doherty, 85, formerly of Worcester, passed away on Monday, Dec. 21 ^st , in her home after a long illness.

Her husband, George F. Doherty, passed away in 2005.  She leaves her two daughters, Patricia A. Haddock and her husband Stewart of Dudley and Christine M. Dinbergs and her husband Arturs of Hollis, NH; her sister, Rita Ouellette and her husband Roger of Worcester; her four grandchildren, Mara Bourbeau and her husband Zachary of El Paso, TX, Elise Dinbergs of Hollis, NH, Jonathan Demers and his wife Courtney of Stafford Springs, CT and Brad Daniels-Demers and his spouse Michael of Oxford and; her two great grandchildren, Liam Demers and Ronan Demers; and nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her brother, Richard Ritacco.  She was born in Worcester the daughter of Augustine J. and Beatrice M. (DiTora) Ritacco.

Joanne worked in retail; however, her favorite occupation was caring for others as a loving daughter, wife, Mom, Nana, JoJo, Auntie Jo and friend.  Joanne was peaceful and humble, yet so strong and courageous. Joanne's optimism, faith and love of life made her a blessing and inspiration to all and she will be dearly missed.  The family would like to express their gratitude to Overlook Hospice of Charlton, especially Nina and Esther providing excellent personal care, and also to the staff of Accord Adult Day Center of Webster for providing her with wellbeing and happiness during her time there.

JoAnne's funeral service and burial in St. John's Cemetery, Worcester, will be private.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 309 Waverley Oakes Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.

Live streaming of JoAnne's Funeral Mass on Wednesday, Dec. 23rd., at 10:00am - Please click link below

https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/10667843

If streaming is lost the service will be recorded for viewing after the service is over.