Joanne McOsker, 96, of East Hampstead, NH, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of faith, service, and devotion to her family and the causes she cherished.

Born and raised in New York, Joanne graduated from A.B. Davis High School in Mount Vernon, where she was a proud member of the National Honor Society before continuing her education at Carnegie Mellon University. Throughout her life, Joanne’s unwavering Catholic faith guided everything she did. She was a tireless advocate for life, a dedicated parishioner, and an inspiration to all who knew her.

Joanne served as President of Catholics for Life in Rhode Island and was a founding member of both the Mother of Life Center in Providence and the Little Flower Home in Rhode Island. She organized countless pilgrimages and bus trips to the annual March for Life in Washington, DC, and was a passionate advocate for the sanctity of life. A longtime member of the Legion of Mary, she faithfully led numerous Junior Legion of Mary groups, helping to foster the faith of generations of young Catholics. Recently she was deeply involved in her parish, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Salem, NH.

Her commitment extended well beyond her local community. Joanne served as a lobbyist in Rhode Island, testifying before legislators in support of pro-life legislation and organizing peaceful prayer vigils outside abortion clinics. She was known for carrying Miraculous Medals wherever she went, joyfully sharing their meaning and the teachings of the Catholic Church with everyone she encountered. Whether through the Legion of Mary, parish ministry, or simple conversations with strangers, Joanne never missed an opportunity to share her faith.

Beyond her ministry, Joanne possessed many talents and interests. She loved to cook and shared that passion as the host of a public television cooking show. Earlier in life, she pursued acting in New York, appearing in several plays. No matter the endeavor, Joanne’s natural leadership, enthusiasm, and love for people shined through.

Above all, Joanne treasured her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose wisdom, strength, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Joanne was predeceased by her beloved husband, Judge Robert McOsker; her cherished daughter, Clara Ryan; and her brothers, Quentin Solano, Robert Solano, and Dennis Solano.

She is survived by her children, Daniel McOsker and wife Vicki of Scarborough, ME, Ann Francis and husband Tom of Vienna, VA, Marie Hassell and husband Joseph of Cranston, RI, Mary Beth Weaver and husband Paul of St. Johnsbury, VT and Helen Altomari of Winchendon, MA; her son-in-law, Tim Ryan; her siblings, Donna Meinel of NY, Geraldine DeAngelis of NY, Peter Solano of NY and Raymond Solano Jr. of TX; her 26 cherished grandchildren; 29 adored great-grandchildren, with 4 more expected; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Joanne’s family finds comfort in knowing that her lifelong mission of sharing Christ’s love and defending the dignity of every human life has left an enduring impact on countless lives.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Joanne’s life will be held on Monday, July 20, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 290 Main St., Salem, NH. Please arrive by 10:45 am. Burial in Rhode Island is private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joanne’s name may be made to: Mother of Life Center, 400 Atwell Ave, Providence, RI 02909 or at www.motheroflife.org 

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