DALTON, Mass. — Joan M. Blakesley, 86, of Old Windsor Road, Dalton, Mass., passed away July 16, 2018, at Berkshire Medical Center. 

Born on December 5, 1931, to the late Ralph and Edith Zahn Heath, she was a graduate of St. Joseph High School.  Joan was married to Ralph Edward Blakesley, who predeceased her on April 20, 2013. 

Primarily a homemaker, Mrs. Blakesley worked previously at Cranes, Dalton Pharmacy and Burgner’s Farm, as well as a nurse’s aide at St. Lukes Hospital. 

She was a communicant of St. Agnes Church and enjoyed crafting and knitting. 

Mrs. Blakesley leaves behind her children, Sheila Blakesley of Dalton, Diane Dondi of Centerhill, Fla., and Ricky Blakesley of Dalton; three grandchildren, Melissa Martinetto, Jennfier Poland and Jonathan Blakesley; and seven great-grandchildren, Jace Keith, Trevor Sawyer, Shawn Letourneau, Maiara Martinetto, Alize Blakesley, Arianna Blakesley and Avery Blakesley. 

She was predeceased by her daughter, Cheryl Ann Blakesley. 

Funeral notice: Funeral services for Mrs. Blakesley will be held, Monday, July 23, 2018, with a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Agnes Church, celebrated by Rev. Christopher Malatesta, Pastor. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery. 

Calling hours will be held, Sunday, July 22, 2018, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Dery-Foley Funeral Home, 890 E. Main St., Dalton, Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Dalton Fire Department or Dalton Police K9, in care of the funeral home.