Joanna “Joan” Hamel, 83, of Salem, NH passed away peacefully at Pleasant Valley Nursing & Rehab Center in Derry, NH on October 17, 2026. Born in Lawrence, MA, she was the youngest of 3 children of her loving Sicilian parents, Emma and Alfred Pulverenti.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Donna, her son, Albert Jr, daughter-in-law, Linda, grandson, Cooper, and many nieces and nephews. She is pre-deceased by her husband of 59 years, Albert Hamel Sr, parents, Emma and Alfred, sister Betsie Robinson and brother Salvatore Pulverenti.

Joan grew up in Lawrence, MA, and was educated at St. Mary’s High School and NECC. Her starting career was at Western Electric in North Andover, MA as an executive secretary and in later years she worked in banking and then insurance at MetLife until her retirement.

Joan raised her family in Salem, NH. Her love of family led her to be the caretaker of many when needed. Joan enjoyed cooking and serving and also used her talents as a writer and poet. In her spare time, Joan engaged in groups, including a prayer group, writer’s workshops and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and St. Rita’s Sodality. She loved music, singing and dancing and had a kind, bright smile for all.

Joan enjoyed the annual Hamel Christmas party. Despite her shyness, Al Sr got her to do entertainment (hilarious skits) with him. She also did one with her kids, daughter-in-law and grandson one year.

Joan will be remembered for her unlimited love, gentle spirit, compassion, beautiful smile and most of all, her deep commitment to her family. She will be deeply missed by her cherished family.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 23rd at 10:30 AM at Mary Queen of Peace Church, 200 Lawrence Rd. Salem, NH. Burial of her urn will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery and then the family and guests will gather for a meal back at Mary Queen of Peace Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joan’s name may be made to:

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), www.nami.org.

The Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St, Salem, NH is honored to assist the family will the arrangements.

To send a message of condolence to the family, please view the obituary at www.douglasandjohnson.com.