Joan Esther Damon (Hanson), age 95, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, in Rockwall, Texas. Born on November 27, 1930, in Weymouth, Massachusetts, she lived a life rich in adventure, creativity, and love.

Joan graduated from Bates College in 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, laying the foundation for a life marked by curiosity and exploration. Her passion for learning extended far beyond the classroom—she was an avid reader and had a deep love for marine biology that stayed with her throughout her life.

In 1957, Joan married Billy Joe Damon on January 12. Their marriage spanned more than six decades until his passing in July 2021. Together they built a life that took them across the globe. Joan embraced the expatriate lifestyle with enthusiasm and grace, living in Venezuela, Libya, Australia, Peru, and Indonesia. Her love of travel was not just about seeing new places—it was about immersing herself in different cultures and experiences.

Joan's creativity found expression in many forms. She was a skilled ceramicist whose hands shaped beauty from clay. She also found joy in the kitchen; cooking was one of her great passions, and her family fondly remembers her culinary talents as both comforting and delicious.

Above all else, Joan cherished her family. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Susan Damon and husband Daniel of Vashon, Washington; her son William H. Damon and wife Dawn of Seattle, Washington; three granddaughters—Allison, Emily, and Sarah; and two great-grandchildren—Kennedy and Jolene. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life, but it was her great-grandchildren who brought her unparalleled joy in her later years. Joan was fortunate to have Melanie Boldman as her devoted caretaker for many years. Melanie looked after both Billy Joe and Joan during the final nine years of their lives, bringing comfort not just to them but also to their entire family.

Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband Billy Joe Damon and her parents John and Nellie Hanson.

Those who knew Joan will remember her as loving, gentle, fun-loving, and creative. Even at 95 years old, she radiated warmth and joy. Her ever-present smile lit up every room she entered, especially when surrounded by family.

May Joan's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

The family will hold a private service to honor their loved one's memory.