Elizabeth Joan Hennessy, born July 19, 1939 to Michael “Bud/Papa” Hennessy and Elizabeth “Liz/Honey/GG” Hennessy (née Forristall). Joan died at home—exactly as she wanted—on Sunday, July 10, 2022 surrounded by family and love. She will always be remembered for her generosity far and wide and her passionate championing of those less fortunate. She was a dyed-in-the-wool Democrat and Ford lover, especially Bernie Sanders and her 1958 convertible Thunderbird. Although Joan traveled extensively, she was most at peace in her garden or curled up on her couch with a good book. Late in life, she discovered Amish bodice rippers. Joan loved to dance (to her kids’ embarrassment and other’s joy), as well as painting and drawing. She was involved with the Sheboygan County Democrats, Naperville Women’s League, Dunwoody Fine Arts Association, among others. If she joined a club, she quickly became President. She supported her kids and grandkids at their sporting events—always with her ear-splitting whistle. She was lovingly described as a firecracker and inspiration by her friends. She could be painfully honest, always with good intentions.
She is survived by her children: Kathleen Quigley, Patrick (Julie) Quigley, Terry Quigley (Elvis and Corky), Kandice Henning, Andy (Stephanie) McNeel, and Bob (Bonnie) McNeel; grandchildren: Dane (Lucy) Quigley, Lindsey Quigley (Mark Wilson), Kyla Quigley (Wesley Heap), Hannah (Granger) Riggins, Hayley Quigley, Jake Wiesenthal (Meg Maynard), Amy McNeel (Devon Gildea), Allison Henning, James Henning, Kyle McNeel, Don McNeel, and Tessa McNeel; great-grandchildren: Eleanor Quigley, Sedona Riggins, and Selah Riggins; brother, Mike Hennessy, special sister-in-law Kate Hennessy, niece Misha (AJ) Nesselrod, and their children Raya and Lennon Nesselrod; as well as countless family, friends, and neighbors.
A private family gathering will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center or Safe Harbor.
The family would like to thank St. Nicholas Hospice for their compassionate and loving care, as well as all the friends and neighbors.
The Wenig Funeral Home – Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit www.wenigfh.com for online condolences or more information.
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