Joanne Ferrara Moran

MORAN, Joanne (Ferrara) of West Hartford, returned to her Heavenly Father during the early hours of February 28th after a brief illness. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Martin J. Moran Jr., whom she adored, and her cherished younger sister, Geraldine Ferrara Cattlin. Together with Marty, Joanne built a home overflowing with love and raised five sons: Martin J. Moran III of West Hartford; Bernard Moran (Bobbi Daugherty Moran) of Boston, MA; John Moran (Beth Ann Johnson) of Hampstead, NC; Christopher Moran of Rocky Hill; and David Moran (Stephanie Murray Moran) of West Hartford. Born in St. Louis, MO to Dr. Bernard and Anne Thorpe Ferrara, Joanne was raised in Providence, RI alongside her cousin, and dearest friend, Marilyn Thorpe Carroll. Marilyn and her husband Bill Carroll introduced Joanne to Marty. She graduated from Convent of the Sacred Heart, Elmhurst in Providence, attended Newton College of the Sacred Heart in Newton Centre, MA and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Central Connecticut State University with summa cum laude distinction. Joanne was a parishioner at St. Timothy’s Parish for 35 years, and later, St. Peter Claver. While she was a brilliant thinker and accomplished theologian, Joanne did not approach faith as an intellectual exercise, but rather, a practice of trust in God. It was this firm belief that guided her work as a spiritual director, founding member of The Voice of the Faithful, religious educator, and eucharistic minister. Through this work, she made many friends in the community, who will dearly miss her kindness, wisdom, and generosity of spirit. Joanne’s favorite title was that of “Gram” and “Gigi,” monikers bestowed upon her by her fourteen grandchildren (Christopher, Jr., Conor, Samantha, Joe, Caroline, Jack, Julia, Drew, Olivia, Roan, Mateo, Martin, Quinn and Luke) and three great-grandsons (Mickey, Finn and Vigo). She is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews. Joanne’s family would like to thank the dedicated staff at UConn John Dempsey Hospital, who took wonderful care of her during the last weeks of her life. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Celebration of Joanne's Life and Faith on Thursday, March 20th at 10 am. at the Church of Saint Timothy, 1116 North Main St., West Hartford. The family will hold a private burial. Online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.molloyfuneralhome.com

Joanne Ferrara Moran

February 28, 2025