Joan Cullinan Obituary

Happy heavenly Birthday❤

5/27/24
From California visiting the 9/11 memorial on Memorial Day. I randomly approached one name. Joan Cullinan. Googled her. Same age, same look, also Lithuanian, and also blessed with 2 sisters who love to travel together especially to Paris. I shared the obit with my sister Judy who was with me on this trip to NY, tears in our eyes. The sadness and loss lives on with sisters like us. Bless you all. We are so sad and sorry for your loss.

Happy Birthday in heaven.

Remembering Joan on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....

On this day as on many other days you're on my mind and always in my heart. I hope you're goofing on Elvis. Love,
Stu

Joanie, rest peacefully. You are still remembered by many of us and will always be. Love Betty

In heartfelt memory of Joan

RIP Joan

Thinking of you today and know that you are safe in God's hands now . I have many years of memories of our friendship and will never forget you.

We may be related and one day in God's heaven perhaps we may meet.

With deepest condolences

John Joseph Cullinan
Stoke Golding
United Kingdom

You will always carry on in everyone's heart. You would of made a beautiful mother..

I will never forget how beautiful you sang.

Your beautiful voice will never be forgotten

Remembering you especially today

This is for you, Joanie. It's been a lifetime since that terrible day and yet it will always be like yesterday. There are no words to describe the pain of your loss nor salve to heal the incurable, gaping wound that it left. You were 10 and I was 11 when we met and grew up side by side in adjacent apartments in Lindsay Park. Thirty-six years later, only death separated us. There wasn't a subject we didn't explore together, a feeling we didn't share. I really knew you and you really knew me and it was sooo sweet and comfortable. We were childhood friends and then we were adult friends. We went our separate ways, as life would have it, but we never lost touch.We always picked up as if not one second had passed since we last spoke. There is no one who could take your place. No new friendship can fill the void your passing created. You were and will always be, my sister and my closest friend. The day you prayed a salvation prayer with me in your apartment in Manhattan, will always be my only solace, knowing that you and I will meet again in heaven. The world lost an irreplaceable treasure on that fateful day. To the Cullinans, Blaise, Brenda and your mom, my deepest condolences. If life is about the love you gave and the happiness you brought to others, then your whole family and God Himself, should be very proud of you indeed. I love you, I miss you every second and I can't wait to see you again. Until that day....I will treasure our memories and I will never forget you. With much love, Eileen

To Joan's family: Joan just popped into my head. It was probably because my sister visited the memorial last week and sent a photo. I had read in the newsletter of our alma mater, St. Vincent Ferrer, that Joan had lost her life on 9/11. I just read everything I could about her and saw the YouTube clip with her mom saying, "I just want her back." I feel for you all. I don't remember much about high school, but I definitely remember Joan, her beautiful straight (!) hair and her incredible sense of fun. We didn't keep in touch but she is definitely one I wish I could now friend on FB and reconnect with. Best wishes to you all.

We were girls growing up in Lindsey Park and I have thought of you often. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers always.

911memorial.org was so great to let me honor and remember a fellow american that i didnt know. Im so sorry you fell victim to the terrorist attack and my thoughts are with the friends and families. Since the 9/11 attacks, i joined the United Staes Navy as a Hospital Corpsman do just do a small part in defending our country and also to help heal the wounded warriors who went to fight the terrorists and their leader, which im sure you'd be glad to know, Osama Bin Laden has been killed. On this 10th aniversary, its still fresh on our minds the destruction and violence that took place that day. You will never be forgotton!! I will meet you some day in hevaen. May God bless you, your friends and family, and America.

Never met you, Joanie...feel like have though. My sister, Gloria, also passed away in 2001- not related to 9/11. Brenda & Gloria were good friends & she introduced me to Bren. I bet you guys are friends up there!
Love, Eva

Joanie, You have been my constant companion for the last ten years and I have thought about you so often - a funny, silly thing will happen in my life and I can hear your great laugh. I can feel you with me all the time. So glad you found Tom and happiness. You so deserved that. We have many wonderful memories. Miss you a lot.

Joanie, Ten years in heaven. I found a letter you wrote to me many years ago. It hurt to read it and see your familiar handwriting. The content brought back memories of our youth - some happy, some sad. I'm so happy to know that you found love and happiness with your husband, Tom. I'm so saddened by what happened to you but I know that you are at peace. Betty

You are thought of often. I'm sad to think we lost touch, but will meet again someday.

Tom Cullinan helped my niece professionally, and upon looking up information about him, I was shocked to learn he lost his wife on 9/11.
Tom, thank you for helping my niece, and I'm so sorry for your loss.

Happy Birthday!!!

Joan and her family lived in the apartment next door to me in Brooklyn, NY. She was my babysitter and her sister Brenda and I were playmates. I think of you and your sister frequently.

To Joan's Family:
I think of Joan often and will never forget the friendship we shared. I keep her and all of you in my prayers. I have such fond memories:
-dancing on stage in Sr. Nicodemus' class and being jealous because Joan got the star role because she was a genuine Lithuanian (how I longed for blonde hair!)
-singing (with Betty and Joan) in front of Bee's church women's group!
-playing on ainslie street
-your soft spoken and kind dad
-you're beautiful, sophisticated mom
-playing on the terrace in the highrise
-dating stories and many days at the beaches in Brooklyn, singing harmony on the L train on the way
-Brenda in her high chair making a food mess!
-Blaze taking us to Brownies which I hated!
-meeting for fish in little Italy afer work
-staying in Joan's apartment in DC when Ken and I were looking for a place to live in Richmond
and the list goes on...

My love to all and, thanks for the memories!

Deb Carlotti

Dear Joanie,

We went to Ferrer for two years before I transferred out in junior year. I will always remember laughing with you and our crazy antics. It was with disbelief that I heard through the grapevine of your loss on 9/11 just a couple of years ago.
"Crystal Blue Persuasion" on your terrace in Brooklyn...hanging out at Donna's and
Excel coffee shop. "Harrison, we're going to teach you how to really smoke a Marlboro!" We hadn't seen each other since we were both 24...but Ferrer feels
like yesterday. Your laughter and spirit will remain with me forever.
My sympathy to your husband, family and friends. "Sun face to Moon face in frosh yearbook" Love you Joanie always.

I still can't believe what happened to you. It had been so many, many years since we were in touch. I prefer to think that you are still alive and happy, and only that we no longer speak. I will never forget you.

Happy Birthday!!!

Dear Tom,
My thoughts have been with you these past five years. I went to your Mom's house in October of 2001. I left you a written message there. I am so sorry that you have gone through this terrible tragedy. Your wife, Joan, seemed to have been such a beautiful person. You have been in my heart and in my prayers. Your childhood friend,
Kathleen Stuart

As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

In memory....

I was a student at Temple University in Philadelphia on September 11, 2001. My now-husband woke me that morning with a phone call and told me to turn on the TV.



"What channel?" I said.



"Any one, it doesn't matter," he responded. I knew at that moment something horrible had happened.



One year later, on September 11, 2002, my school had a memorial event and handed out small pieces of paper to everyone that attended. Each paper had the name of an individual who perished in the attack. My paper read: Joan McConnell Cullinan, 47, Scarsdale, NY.



I keep this paper in my wallet always to remind me how precious life is. It has taken up residence in several different wallets at this point and is a little bit worn, but it still represents so much to me: The intense emotions I felt on that day and in days since and the importance of appreciating every day.



Joan, I may have never known you, but your life has touched my heart.

Dear Joanie:

I can't believe I found this website. I have been thinking of you all morning and the tears have been streaming down my face. I just drove my son to school and the song "Mercy, Mercy Me" came on the radio and it reminded me of you so much. I miss you terribly. The only think that helps me is that I know you are with God and I know God was in your everyday vocabulary.



I went to high school with Joanie - St. Vincent Ferrer - and we have been friends ever since - over 35 years. Joanie was one of my closest friends in the world. I remember in high school how Joanie, Betty and myself used to harmonize on the trains, in school, in Mr. Mahoney's class, at a 50's reunion (on stage), etc. etc. One of our favorites was "What's Your Name". We called ourselves "Betty and the Buttons". We had so many good times, laughs, vacations, we used to go dancing, sleepovers, you name it.



My heart goes out to her family who I was close to also. I used to spend many times in her apartment in Brooklyn and she used to spend many times in my house in Queens.



I will always love you and think of you and there are many times I feel your presence with me and I am so grateful for that.



I can't believe what happened to you, you just disappeared and to this day (3/7/06) I can't believe I can't call you up. There's so much I want to say to you. I love you with all of my heart.

Today, tomorrow and always in my prayers.



May there be peace in your lives.

I Know that she is looking down on you and watching over your whole family. Don't be sad you will see her again one day.

God bless you and your family.

I didn't know Joan but my family's condolences to Tom and all who lost this beautiful person on that terrible day. Our shared name of Cullinan caught my brother's eye and he sent me the New York Times piece. If my father Nat Cullinan were still alive I know he would weep with you -- as a boy he had responded to a church appeal for Chinese babies and sent away $5 thinking he would get one of his own. And he loved New York City, used to take me on long walks all the way down to Wall Street. Oh dear, your loss is beyond human understanding. My heart goes out to all the Scarsdale Cullinans and McConnells.

To all who loved Joanie,

I discoverd this site as I was reading about the upcoming anniversay of her death. It seems hard to believe she is not here anymore. It is still hard to think about. I knew Joanie through my sister Carol. Joanie is Carol's best friend. They are more than friends. I would call them "soul friends," as a friendship that stong is so hard to describe.

I have many fond memories of Joanie. She lit up a room with her smile, her laughter, and her accent. My daughter instantly fell in love with her when she met her so many years ago. It was probably because Lindsay, who was only 4 or 5 I think, admired Joanie's Statue of Liberty T-shirt that she had on. In typical Joanie fashion, she took the shirt off and gave it to Lindsay!!! From that moment on she had an adoring fan. :) And, just two years ago, I remember how thrilled she was to be going to Joanie's wedding with Carol.

Another funny moment was when we were in an Italiam restaurant near the theaters when my husband, Bill had lamb chops. He wanted to desperately pick them up and finish eating the meat off the bones. He asked Joanie if it was proper to do that, she hesitated and she said only if he was facing away from the crowd. (She was always up to date on that kind of stuff.) As it turned out, he was facing away from the crowds but in front of a large mirror only discovered after the deed was done.

These are just a few memories and they still make me smile.

Joanie, you left us much too early. I look forward to the day we meet up again in Heaven.

Joanie is how I knew Joan, I me her because of my friendship with her Mom

(Bea), and they 'The Girls' - the family of women, were always doing something interesting.



It will be a year soon since this tragedy which took a bright and shining light from our midst, and yet I keep her picture from the Memorial service on my bulletin board next to my computer and say hello each day as if she were still here.



For Tom, the love of her life, I do not know how to tell him how sorry I am she was taken away, nor how absolutely delighted she was with her new marriage - but her photos show it, and the glow of her contentment.



To her Mom and Sisters I send the message that Joan is still here because she lives inside each of us who was touched by her.....and I too miss her.

I didn't know Joan but we knew her husband. When my children were having some problems he really helped us out. We couldn't believe it when we saw him on 20/20 and learned he had lost his wife. Reading these tributes gives a real picture of what a very special woman she must have been. Our prayers and condolences go out to her family. We have thought of you and prayed for you these past few months. It seems that on 9/11 God only took the very best.

I met Joan through my best friend Donna Gatto. I remember Joan as a person who you could laugh with all the time -- who was such a happy and loving person. The thing I most remember about Joan are the deep conversations we had about religion. I remember at one time she was going to confession every other day. I would say to hear what are you doing -- you have no sins. I know she is with the angeles and looking down upon us.



May God Bless Joan and her family and everyone who lost their lives on 9/11.



Barbara Rose

Joan was a real New York City jewel...glamorous and beautiful inside and out. She taught me a lot about work and life.

Joan was one of the nicest people, ever. She was so lovely, inside and out. She had such a warm heart. Joan is irreplaceable.

Dear Joan,



Although, we had not seen each other for over 12 years, I thought of you often and wondered how you were. There was a time in our lives that we were very close. We spent over five years of our lives as co-workers at AT&T. There we helped each other cope with the struggles of early adulthood. I feel there are people who come into your lives just at the right time. I think we were there for each other just when we needed it. At AT&T, we shared our happiness, our sorrows, and our struggles. We shared secrets and adventures. With you, I laughed so hard I cried and at times shared such sorrow at our losses.



When Jo our good friend called me on 9/11 to tell me she had been on the phone with you at the time of the attack, I felt sure you would be saved. As each day passed, the reality hit hard that I may never see you again. It was hard for my family to understand the tears that flowed in the days following. They did not know the depth of the friendship we had as we had let too much time go by without seeing each other.



I only wish I was able to share in your happiness. It must have been wonderful meeting Tom and living the life you wanted, although it was so short. I am glad I got to meet him. He was just perfect for you.



I remember how much you loved your Mom & Dad and your sisters Blaise and Brenda.



I feel the pain that they must feel with you being gone.



At your memorial service, I took solace at your strong faith. I know you are in a special place in heaven with the warm arms of Jesus and Mary around you. With this hope, we will one day be reunited.



Your Friend,





Maryellen

I am so happy I found this site. My friend Ian told me about it.

I am a friend of Joan's, as a matter of fact, we were on the phone at 8:44 when the plane hit, I heard the noise. Joan thought it was a bomb, little did she know the Trade Center would totally collapse. Joan and I were friends for 28 years, she was my maid of honor and I was in her wedding party. I can't believe I cannot pick up the and talk with her. I do talk to her everyday and miss her dearly. In friendship, Jo

The wound has reopened tonight, the tears are streaming but I will try to remember the words of Kahil Gibran. And in the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter and the sharing of pleasures. I wish you could taste all the good chocolate I have been eating for you lately.

I met Joan through my cousin. We shared many goods times - I can't stop thinking of her.Even though we didn't see each other often, I felt like I knew her forever. I have a photo of us at one of my company events which she came to with my cousin. I couln't bear to look at it after September 11th. I finally did so that Friday - I was astonished to see a date on it - September 14th, 1997.The exact date - 4 years later. I know Joan had something to do with this and that she is in Heaven. Love you.

I had the pleasure of talking to Joan often, her boss was my client. I still remember her voice, sometimes laughing, sometimes haried but always fun to talk to.

I miss you Joan.

I am sorry she left us so early in her life. I did not know her too well but always enjoyed being with her.

What i can say is the effect she had on the people she came into contact with was profound,she made the world better for all her friends. we all miss her .

I met Joan too few times - but I enjoyed each meeting - I hope she did too.

I became friends with Joan about 6 years ago. We both worked for a company called Tele-TV. After the company closed we remained friends.



Joan was a good listener, storyteller, motivator and most of all - a great friend. Always wanting to help you if your were in a jam...she was always there for you.



I miss her and think about her everyday.

We are deeply sorry for your loss of Joan. May her life and love live on in those who love her. May you find comfort in the warm memories of times shared with Joan. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of T.M.G.F.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

MAY THE LORD BLESS JOAN MCCONNELL

CULLINAN AND MAY SHE REST IN PEACE

WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS

HER HUSBAND ..FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER

FORGET 9/11/01

I haven't seen Joan in over 14 years but I remember her as a pretty girl--easy and funny to converse with. We worked in the same building in NY. I still have a pair of earrings I remember she greatly admired and every time I wear them I will think her. I am sorry for her loss and pray for her family. God Bless.

I hope it helps to know that others are still thinking of and praying for justice and for peace for you and your loved ones. What happened on September 11 is still so horrible and sad that I do not want to celebrate the holidays this year.

My tears go to all that lost their lives at the WTC including Joan Mc Connell Cullinan , what a special person she was.. I have family who lives in Scarsdale

I am so sorry for your loss. I wish there were something I could say to help take your pain away. Please find comfort in happy memories and know that you are not alone.

Angels made their way to heaven on that very day

I am very sorry for your loss but it is god's gain to have such a funny "ANGEL" in heaven but know that she is with you all (in the shadows of life) please take care she would want it that way!!!

I went to Ferrer with Joan. She was in my class and my friend. She and Betty used to harmonize "There's a train a coming" I thought wow, she can really sing. And then she would just make you laugh, make funny faces, roll her eyes, Joan was all about fun. I can't believe she was there... I just can't believe any of it...

I AM A TOTAL STRANGER BUT I JUST SAW 20/20 THIS EVENING AND HER MEMORIAL SERVICE. I AM SO SO SORRY

FOR YOUR LOSS....