Nerf, Joan M.

ALBANY – Joan M. (Shanahan) Nerf, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 20, 2021. Born in Albany, the daughter of the late William and Marie (Herbert) Shanahan, Joan graduated from St. James grammar school and Vincentian Institute. She was a longtime Communicant of St. Francis of Assisi (formerly St. James Church) and an active Parish volunteer for many years. She was a member of the St. James Rosary Society, the Altar guild, home school association and a faithful member of her prayer group. Mrs. Nerf was also a tireless volunteer at St. James card party, bingo and annual bazaar.

She was the loving wife of the late John B. Nerf; devoted mother of Eileen and Lisa Nerf (David Marrow) and the late Debbie Nerf; grandmother of Brian (Rochelle) Cady and Christine (Joe) Persico, and Matthew Martell; great-grandmother of Chelsea Persico; and adopted grandmother of Olivia Reueda; sister of Joseph (Barbara) Shanahan, and the late John Herbert, William, Robert, and Paul Shanahan; sister-in-law of the late Rosemary Herbert and the late Joan Nerf; also survived by many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the staff at St. Peter’s Nursing and Rehab for the love and care shown to Joan particularly Alice, Regina, Virginia and all of the nurses and CNA’s on 2 West. They would also like to thank Beth, Varsha and Doug; the Hospice staff who are amazing and compassionate individuals.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Funeral Mass on Wednesday, February 24 at 10:30 am at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 391 Delaware Ave. and may visit with her family prior to the Mass from 9:30 -10:30 am. Masks, social distancing and occupancy limitations will be observed. Interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.