Joan Robinson McGraw Class of 1961

We are sorry to share the sad news that Joan (Richardson) McGraw ’61 passed away in New Bern, NC December 2020, after a 12-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Those classmates who may remember Joan’s twinkling eyes, ready smile and friendly personality will be happy to know that she retained those wonderful traits throughout her lifetime.

Joan and husband Thomas McGraw ’61 raised two fine sons, John and Doug, and after they became independent, Joan decided she would like to have a career of her own, and began what became a 17 year stint with the Retired Officers Association (now known as the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)). She loved the professional and patriotic environment at TROA and was very proud of her work in the Payroll Department. Retiring in 1998, and ever the “beach person,” Joan chose Little River, SC as the couples final getaway place. However, two years later, they moved to New Bern, NC (still near the ocean), a town with a rich cultural heritage and just right for retirees. Joan thrived with the many social and volunteer organizations she joined in this friendly town.

Joan is survived by her husband Tom in New Bern, sons John and Doug, and grandson “JT,” all in Stafford County, VA. She was predeceased by her granddaughter, Bailey.