Joan McMahon

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joan McMahon, who left this world peacefully on September 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 1, 1940, in South Bend, Indiana, Joan was a beacon of kindness, joy, and wisdom, whose life was a testament to love, resilience, and dedication. Joan was the beloved daughter of Helen and Theodore Niezgodski. She grew up in South Bend, where she graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1958 and furthered her education at Saint Mary’s College. Her passion for teaching led her to a fulfilling career, beginning at Holy Cross grade school. For 22 years, she made her mark at Honeywell Technology Lab, where her colleagues cherished her guidance and friendship. After retiring in 1999, Joan continued to impart her love of language by teaching English as a new language in the Penn Harris Madison Schools for five years. In 1960, Joan married her cherished husband, Thomas McMahon, and together they built a life filled with love and laughter. Although Thomas preceded her in death, their union blessed them with five wonderful children. The couple faced the heartbreaking loss of their son Scott and daughter Lisa, but their love remained a constant source of strength and comfort. Joan's life was enriched by the love of her surviving children: Cary, Kelly (Jeffery), and Kathy (Shane). She was a devoted grandmother to Thomas, Michael (Maria), Kevin (Sarah), Megan (Josh), Tim (Sigita), Brianna (DeAndre), Brittany, Brandon (Maggie), Bryce (Sam), Taylor (Kevin), and Kaitlyn. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Theodore, Magdalene, Henry, Veronica, Gabriella, Adrian, Hannah, Scott, Adeline, John, James, Emma, Brady, Vivianna, Dominyka, Aria, Landon, Kali, and two more eagerly awaited arrivals. Joan's family brought her immeasurable joy, and she relished every moment spent attending their sporting and school events. In later years, Joan found companionship and love with her partner of 14 years, Larry Horn. Together, they shared adventures and created new memories. Joan's sister, Shirley Niezgodski (Geri Polvino), was a steadfast presence in her life, offering support and love throughout the years. Joan's interests were as varied as they were vibrant. She was an avid Euchre player and a talented pianist who delighted in sharing her music with others. Her love for all things Disney was well known, and her enthusiasm for life was contagious. A service to honor Joan McMahon's remarkable life will be held at St. Pius Church on September 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice, reflecting Joan's generous spirit and her desire to make the world a better place. Joan McMahon will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love, kindness, and joy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.