Joan Halpin Cronin Oat, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 98 on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, in Mystic, Connecticut, surrounded by her loving family. Joan was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by love, kindness, and an enduring spirit that touched everyone she met.
Born on June 24, 1926, in Waterbury, Connecticut, Joan was the eldest daughter of Dr. Charles Burke Cronin and Mary (Mae) Katherine Knudsen. She grew up alongside her two sisters in a household filled with love and purpose. The family later moved to Leominster, Massachusetts, where her father served as the physician for the DuPont Company. Joan's early experiences assisting her father in his medical practice inspired her passion for nursing. She pursued this calling at Simmons College in Boston, earning her nursing degree in 1947 and forming lifelong friendships with her fellow students. Her dedication to healthcare extended throughout her life as she participated in the Nurses' Health Study established in 1976.
Joan's life took a beautiful turn when she met her future husband, Donald Lewis Oat Sr., during summers spent at Groton Long Point in Connecticut. Their shared love for the area became a cornerstone of their lives together. Joan and Donald were married on June 26, 1948, in Leominster—the same date Joan's parents had wed 23 years earlier. Their union marked the beginning of a life filled with love, adventure, and family.
The couple began their married life in New London, Connecticut, before settling in Noank to raise their growing family. Donald's career as a newspaperman flourished as he became Co-Publisher and Co-owner of the Norwich Bulletin. In 1981, they moved to Wad Chu Mas Farm in Ledyard, where Joan's nurturing spirit thrived amidst Highland Ponies and other farm animals. Wad Chu Mas Farm became a hub for family gatherings and celebrations.
Joan's zest for life was evident in her love of travel and adventure. She explored the world with Donald and often brought children or grandchildren along to destinations such as St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Inishbofin in Ireland, England, Europe, and across the United States. Her travels were always accompanied by stories and treasures that she shared with her family.
An accomplished skier in her youth, Joan continued to enjoy ski trips with her children and friends to Attitash Mountain in New Hampshire. Her energy and enthusiasm were boundless.
In her late 50s, Joan earned a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from Southern Connecticut State University—a testament to her belief that it is never too late to pursue one's goals. In 1976, she co-founded the Women's Center of Southeastern Connecticut (now Safe Futures), providing critical support services for women. This endeavor exemplified Joan's commitment to making a difference in her community.
In honor of her late husband Donald, Joan generously supported the Norwich Arts Council by funding the naming of the Donald L. Oat Theater in 1997—a lasting tribute to his legacy.
Joan's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her 7 children, 24 grandchildren and 16 great - grandchildren:
Donald Oat Jr, his children, Alexandra and Whitney, grandchildren Jackson, Eva and Hudson, Charles B. Oat, his wife Diane, their daughter Brittany and grandson Matheson, Thomas C. Oat, his children Vanessa, Zachary, Ashley and Oliver and grandchildren Max, Tallulah, Bella, Hazel, Guthrie and Errol, Patricia C. Oat, her children Kendra, Hilary, Julia, Siobhan and Samuel and grandchildren Charlotte, Harper, Owen and Callum, Kathryn Oat Grey, her husband George, their children Charles, Olivia, Christian and Theodore and grandaughter Molly Joan ( named after her great- grandmother) , Joanna C. Oat Konicki, her husband David, their children Willis IV, Lindsay, Colby, Alexandra, Michael and Madison and grandson Willis V, and Michael Oat, his wife Jennifer and daughters Grace and Lila.
Joan is also survived by her sister Patricia Leuthner and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Donald L. Oat Sr.; her parents Dr. Charles Burke Cronin and Mary Katherine Knudsen and her sister Carole Whitney.
A Celebration of Life will be held during the summer of 2025 to honor Joan's extraordinary legacy of love and service. Her family takes comfort knowing that Joan's spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched with her generosity and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Safe Futures (16 Jay St., New London CT 06320) or the Donald L. Oat Theater (62 Broadway., Norwich CT 06360).
Joan Halpin Cronin Oat will forever be remembered for her unwavering love for family and friends and for spreading kindness wherever she went—a life well-lived indeed.
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