Arcese, Joan E of Newton, Ma died on Friday, January 2, 2015 surrounded by family. Joan was a life-long resident of Newton, MA, daughter of the late Anthony and Dora Arcese, and sister of the late Florence Mongeon of Newton, and Norman Arcese of Seattle, Washington. She is survived by her sister Lorraine and brother in-law George Wales of Ohio, brother in-law Richard Mongeon of Newton, and nieces and nephews Linda Finkle, Joanna Finkle, Susan Mongeon, Sandra Mongeon, Craig Wales, Doug Wales, Jennifer Hurley-Wales, Michael Arcese, David Arcese, Robert Arcese and Peter Arcese.

Joan graduated from Newton High School in 1952 and was an enthusiastic participant in class reunions. She worked for the Cobb Agency in Boston for many years and spent the last 30 years with Coordinated Financial Planning in Arlington. She was a generous and loyal friend to many and a devoted daughter, sister and aunt. She was a lover of great singing and dancing, and enjoyed puttering in the garden. Joan loved the beach and memories of summers in Humarock. She loved visiting with neighbors, friends and family, shopping with the girls, and getting her hair done twice a week by her longstanding friend Loren. Joan was the keeper of family facts and folklore, remembering everyone’s birthdays and anniversaries; she maintained the family homestead in Newton with the utmost love and care. Joan’s vibrant, gracious and loving spirit will be missed by all. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Big Sister of Boston. Burial at Newton Cemetery will be private.