Joan Marie (Whelan) Drolette passed away peacefully with her children by her side on the Feast of Assumption August 15, 2024. Affectionately called Joan M, she was a woman of faith, love, and laughter. Predeceased by her husband of 63 years Joe Drolette, her daughter Carol Joan and her 4 siblings, Joan was born at home in Boston to John and Bertha Whelan on February 11, 1928. As a young Air Force bride she lived in Newfoundland, Cuba, San Diego, New Mexico, and South Dakota. Joan and Joe raised their family in Rockland and were the last remaining couple of the young newlyweds who had settled on South Douglas Street. They greatly enjoyed the next generation of neighbors. She was a founding member of the Holy Family Defenders, active in U.S. Swimming and employed at Walker-Clay of Brockton and Hanson for many years. Joan enjoyed traveling the world with her husband and was deeply moved by their visit to the Holy Land. Survived by her sons Joe (Beth) and John (Michelle), her daughter Ann (Bruce) and Nana to five grandchildren; Jessica, Alexa, Dylan, Michael, Max; favorite niece Jeanne Leahy, and special honorary son Mike Manning.

The Drolette family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate her life in the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 pm. A prayer service will be held following visitation at 7:00 pm.A private family burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Boston.