Joan Ann Mannion

Joan Ann (McManus) Mannion, affectionately known as “Big Mama,” was a remarkable woman whose life was filled with purpose, love, and laughter. She was born in Mount Carmel, PA on April 10, 1930, to Albert and Anna (Cannon) McManus, and passed away peacefully at her home in Hampstead, MD, on November 25, 2024, at the age of 94.

After completing high school, Joan moved to New York City, where she worked and attended classes at New York University. She enjoyed a vibrant social life and treasured her time with family and friends. Joan’s adventures continued when she married, moved to Maryland, and began raising a family of five children.

Joan’s career was dedicated to public service, working for the State of Maryland as an Administrative Assistant to Senator Margaret Schweinhaut for 17 years. In 1986, Joan was installed as an officer of the Potomac Chapter of Business & Professional Women of Maryland. She also held various positions with Montgomery County, including serving as office manager for the Montgomery County Community Partnership. After retiring, Joan remained active in her retirement community, volunteering her time and energy to those around her.

Joan had a deep passion for the arts, holding multiple theater subscriptions in and around Washington, DC. She regularly visited museums and galleries with close friends, and her love of dance led her to take lessons in modern dance, tap, and Irish step dancing. Joan even performed in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Washington, DC, as part of a dance troupe. An avid reader, she enjoyed participating in a book club and was always eager to engage in lively discussions.

Known for her warmth, humor, and sharp wit, Joan was the person everyone turned to for guidance and comfort. She had an uncanny ability to offer advice without judgment and always provided a listening ear. Her family was her greatest joy, and she was steadfast in her devotion to them. Joan’s love, kindness, and humor have been passed down through generations, shaping the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her legacy is one of unconditional love, integrity, and the importance of living a well-lived life.

Joan is survived by her five children: Ann Beck (Bob), Eileen Mannion, Kathleen Ruck (Luis), Robert “Bob” Mannion (Naomi), and Michael Mannion (Aileen); 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; her sister, Eileen Baldwin; her brother, Joseph P. McManus (MaryAnne); and many nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her parents, Albert and Anna McManus; her sister, MaryEllen Haggerty; her brothers, Albert “Abbie” McManus and Michael “Bob” Cannon; and her ex-husband, John B. Mannion, Jr.

Family will receive friends from 11am-12pm on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Myers-Durboraw Funeral Home P.A. 91 Willis Street, Westminster (21157) where a celebration of Joan’s life will follow the visitation. Interment to follow at Hampstead Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the hospice that attended to Joan in the final days of her life, BridgingLife: BridgingLife Development Office 200 Memorial Avenue Westminster, MD 21157 410-871-7220 Bridginglifecare.org.