Obituary of Joan Manning

Joan Manning died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on May 23, 2026, after 93 beautiful years filled with love, laughter, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those she cherished most.

Born on January 8, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, Joan was the beloved daughter of Patrick and Alice Fitzmaurice. She was raised in Staten Island alongside her brother, William in a home rich with family values and Irish tradition. Even as a young woman, Joan’s bright spirit and magnetic personality were impossible to miss. During her school years, she was bestowed the title of “Miss Personality Plus,” an honor that perfectly captured the warmth, humor, and joy she carried throughout her entire life.

Joan attended the Barbizon School of Modeling, Notre Dame College in Staten Island, completing her education with a Bachelor of Science degree at Oswego State University. She began a chapter that would shape the rest of her life. The highlight of this chapter was meeting the love of her life, Grant Manning. Their connection was immediate and enduring, and the pair was married on April 1, 1956, beginning a partnership rooted in love and devotion.

Together, Joan and Grant settled in Denville, where they built a beautiful life and raised their five beloved children. It was during these years that Joan discovered another passion: real estate. As a dedicated real estate agent, she spent decades helping people find not merely houses, but homes. Her compassion, honesty, and tireless work ethic made her deeply respected in her profession and beloved by those she served.

After Grant’s death in 1989, Joan continued her work with remarkable determination, providing for her family, while carrying forward the values and strength that defined her life.

Though Joan’s accomplishments were many, nothing brought her greater joy than her family. She was truly the heart and matriarch of her family, delighting in holidays, celebrations, and any occasion that gathered loved ones around her table. She treasured sharing stories of her childhood in Staten Island and proudly passing along memories of her Irish heritage to younger generations. Her home was filled with laughter, wisdom, and the unmistakable warmth that made everyone feel welcome.

Joan was also a devoted Catholic and faithful member of St. Mary’s Parish in Denville, where her faith remained a guiding presence throughout her life. 

Later in life, Joan made the move to The Oaks senior living community, a decision that opened yet another joyful chapter. There, she flourished among residents and staff alike, forming countless friendships through her kindness and genuine interest in others. Joan worked closely with the marketing department to promote senior living to potential residents.  Joan was famous for giving bus tours of Denville to the new residents. Joan’s warmth extended far beyond friendship; she became a chosen grandmother and auntie to many members of the maintenance crew and staff, celebrating their achievements, listening to their worries, and offering heartfelt advice and encouragement whenever needed. Her compassion created bonds that lasted a lifetime.

Joan leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and connection that will continue through all who were fortunate enough to know her. She is now survived by her children, Patricia Rostampour and her husband Behrouze, Carol Cornwell and her husband, the late Bryan Cornwell, Kevin Manning and his wife Angela, Laura Manning-Herne and her husband Jeffery, Linda Puso and her husband Joseph, her grandchildren, Michelle (Patrick), Christina, Courtney (Donovan), Kelly (William), Brian, Connor (Ashlee), Katelyn (Will), Joanna, and her beloved great-grandchildren, Remy, Kasra, and Kaylee. Joan is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Grant Manning, her brothers, William and Joseph Fitzmaurice, her parents, Patrick Fitzmaurice and Alice Fitzmaurice (Nee Sage), and the late RoseMarie Fitzmaurice.

If you would like to continue Joan’s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the Joey Bella Foundation. Memorial Donations can be made via this link. 

A wake will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 3 to 7 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church of Denville, followed by a funeral procession to Denville Cemetery for a graveside service. All are welcome to come and celebrate the life of this incredible woman, and please use this page to leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Joan’s light shine!

*If you are unable to join us at Mass, you can watch the it any time via St. Mary's YouTube page, or by clicking here.