Joanne Hurynowicz Obituary

Obituary of Joanne M. Hurynowicz
Joanne M. Hurynowicz, a woman known for her boundless love, infectious humor, and deep devotion to her family, passed away suddenly on Thursday morning, July 10, 2025. She was 81 years old.
Born in Boston, Joanne was the only child of Charles and Eugenia Hurley. She was just 12 when her beloved father passed away-a loss that deeply shaped her outlook on life. From then on, Joanne understood just how fragile life could be, and she embraced every moment, never taking time with loved ones for granted.
Joanne grew up in Dorchester and graduated from Dorchester High School, where she formed lifelong friendships with her close-knit group of high school girlfriends, affectionately known as "The Chill Girls." One of her earliest jobs was at State Street Bank, where she met the love of her life, William "Bill" Hurynowicz. They married in September 1965 in Dorchester, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and family.
After welcoming their first child, Joanne and Bill settled in Burlington in 1967. Joanne embraced her role as a homemaker with open arms, creating a home filled with warmth, love, and laughter. She was the heartbeat of the Hurynowicz family-the glue that held everyone together. Whether it was a school project, a sports event, or life's unexpected challenges, Joanne was always there with gentle guidance, heartfelt support, or a word of encouragement that made you feel seen and never alone.
An "athletic mom" through and through, Joanne rarely missed a game-hockey, basketball, football, or softball-for her children or grandchildren. While Bill was the boisterous fan in the stands, Joanne was the friendly one with the gift of gab, chatting warmly with fellow spectators while keeping a keen eye on the game. She was a true fan-not just of the sport, but of every child on the team. She knew their names, their strengths, and often, the names of their parents and siblings too. Her presence was a comfort and a constant.
Joanne had a natural love for people and it showed in every job she held. She worked "mother's hours" for over 20 years at Jordan Marsh in the housewares department, delighting in helping customers find just the right item. She later served as a cook at Saint Malachy's Church in Burlington, where she shared not just her culinary talents, but also her warmth and humor with the priests and staff who became like a second family. Her most social job, however, may have been at the Dunkin' Donuts in Burlington Center, where she manned the drive-thru window. With an incredible memory for names and stories, Joanne often came home with updates about the lives of friends, neighbors, or her children's classmates-thrilled that she got paid to do what she loved: connect with others.
She was always in motion-knitting blankets, mittens, scarves, and hats for her family and for those in need. She gifted her handmade items to friends, doctors, and even strangers, always thinking of others. When her mobility declined, she turned her creativity toward personalized cards, sending thoughtful, handwritten messages that brought joy to mailboxes near and far. She was a huge Celtics fan and never missed a game.
Joanne adored her yearly trips to Florida with her best friend Nancy Bibbey, treasured her days at the beach, and never passed up a game of trivia-especially if it meant she could show off her mastery of Jeopardy. She had an amazing memory, a quick wit, and a heart as big as her personality. In the kitchen, she was a beloved cook, especially known for her chicken soup, poached eggs, potato latkes, beef stew, and other family favorites made with love.
Despite her declining health, Joanne mustered the strength to attend the family's cherished Fourth of July celebration at the Bibbey's pool-surrounded by all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. No one could have known it would be her final gathering, but it was a perfect day: one filled with sunshine, laughter, and the love of those who meant the world to her.
Joanne Hurynowicz will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, her quick humor, and, most of all, her heart. She loved with her entire being, and the world is a better place because of the love she gave so freely. Those lucky enough to have known her will carry her spirit forward in every kind word, every joyful gathering, and every act of unconditional love.
Joanne was the beloved wife of the late William "Gramps" Hurynowicz. She was the loving mother of William Hurynowicz, Jean Hurynowicz, and Todd Hurynowicz all of Burlington. She was the proud grandmother of Michael Hurynowicz & his wife Kayt of Nashua, NH, Zachary Hurynowicz & his wife Roberta of Nashua, NH, Drew Hurynowicz & his girlfriend Sabrina Tierney of Nashua, NH, and Katie Hurynowicz & her boyfriend Shawn Hebert or Worcester. She was the great grandmother of Penelope, Cole, and Anna. She was the sister-in-law of Robert & Joan Hurynowicz of Burlington and the late Joan and Howard Clough. Joanne was also survived by many dear friends.
Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Tuesday, July 15 from 4-7 p.m. Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 16 at 9 a.m. and will conclude with a funeral mass at St. Malachy Church in St. Veronica Parish, www.stveronicama.org, 99 Bedford Street, Burlington at 10 a.m.
Memorials in Joanne's name may be made to St. Veronica Parish, 99 Bedford Street, Burlington, MA 01803.
For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net