Joan M. (Pierce) Latuga, 84, a longtime Worcester resident passed away peacefully, Thursday, October 6, 2022, surrounded by the family she cherished. Joan is welcomed in heaven by her husband Mario and son Mark, who both passed away in 2016.

Joan was born in Millbury, the only child of Arthur and Alice (White) Pierce. Raised in Millbury, Joan graduated from Millbury High School and married the “love of her life” Mario Latuga. They settled in the Burncoat Street neighborhood of Worcester, raising their family with love, faith, devotion, and family, before her son Mark and husband Mario left her side six months apart in 2016. Joan continued to live in the family home until recently.  She worked many years as an administrative assistant for the City of Worcester Health Department and as a Harlow Street School crossing guard.

Joan is survived by her best friends, son Robert P Latuga and daughter-in-law, Susan B. Latuga of Worcester; five grandchildren she cherished and was so proud of, Daniel White and his wife Rachel, David White and his wife Katie, Joseph Latuga and his partner Kyle, Anthony Latuga and his wife Brianna, and Alexandria Stamatiou; her six great grandchildren, Zoey, Carter, Owen, Emmett, Charlotte and Julianna;  nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Joan was a member of Our Lady of the Rosary Church and a former member of the Worcester Community Chorus. The matriarch of her family, Joan was devoted to her husband, children, and grandchildren. Her entire life centered around family, she loved to entertain family and friends in her home.  Notably Joan, most enjoyed hosting people into her home, especially Christmas eve which she looked forward to all year. She enjoyed, art, music, and family and always the lady, impeccably dressed every time she went out.  She had a huge heart, giant smile, and kind personality, always greeting people with a hug and smile.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family on Monday, October 10^th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Worcester Her funeral service will be held Tuesday, October 11^th at 11 am in the funeral home. Joan will be reunited with her husband and son in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. Flowers may be sent or memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Community Cat Connection, 289 Thompson Road, Webster, MA 01570.