JoAnn Farnen, 83, of Shelton, beloved wife of James “Jim” Farnen for 62 years, entered into eternal rest on September 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family to whom she devoted her life.
Born on August 21, 1943, JoAnn was the daughter of the late Joseph and Jennie DiBiase. She was predeceased by her brother, Michael DiBiase, and her sister, Virginia Hoagland. She is survived by her sister, Jeanette DeWitz.
JoAnn leaves behind her devoted husband, Jim, and their three children: James Farnen and his wife, Lisa, of Westport; Wendy Price and her husband, Daniel, of Woodbridge; and Brian Farnen and his wife, Kimberly, of Fairfield.
Above all else, JoAnn cherished her family. Her eight grandchildren were among her greatest joys: Katie, Jimmy, Michael and Jack; Hannah and Andrew; Ella and Chad. She took tremendous pride in each of her grandchildren, and the love she had for them was immeasurable.
JoAnn had a remarkable love for life and a kind, generous heart. For many years, she worked as a secretary for the Stratford Visiting Nurse Association. She was deeply loved by her family and by the many friends whose lives she touched.
JoAnn and Jim shared a beautiful marriage built on love, devotion, faith, and friendship. Together, they created a warm and loving home, where they lived for more than six decades and where generations of family memories were made—so many of them centered on celebrations, holidays, and the dining room table. JoAnn was a wonderful cook, and her Sunday dinners became a cherished family tradition, bringing everyone together through good food, conversation, laughter, and love.
JoAnn was a devout Catholic, and her faith was an important part of her life. Throughout her illness, that faith remained a source of strength, comfort, and peace. She faced the challenges of the past two and a half years with tremendous courage and grace, sustained by her belief in God and surrounded by the family she had spent a lifetime loving and caring for. Through it all, she maintained her unforgettable sense of humor, often smiling when asked how she was doing and simply saying, “I’m still here.”
JoAnn’s legacy will live on in the family she created the traditions she established, the home she filled with love, and the countless lessons she taught simply through the way she lived her life. Her kindness, selflessness, strength, faith, and love will remain with her family always.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Monday, September 21, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford, Connecticut. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Lawrence Church, 505 Shelton Avenue, Shelton, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in JoAnn’s memory to Smilow Cancer Hospital in North Haven or to the Stratford Visiting Nurse Association.