Joan F. (Barbour) Alvaro

Joan F. (Barbour) Alvaro, age 79, a longtime resident of Kingston, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital after a long illness.

Beloved wife of the late John Alvaro, with whom she shared more than 20 wonderful years, Joan was the devoted mother of Linda Gaudreau and her husband Rob of Scituate, Joanne Gubbins of Plymouth, and Susan Caggiano of Kingston. She was the cherished Nana to her eight grandchildren—Christopher, Evan, Zachary Gaudreau and their spouses, Haley Gaudreau, Lauren and Jack Paladino, Julia and Carolyn Caggiano—and a proud great-grandmother to Hunter, Violet, and Pablo Gaudreau. She is survived by her loving siblings, Herbert Barbour Jr. and his wife Marian of Plymouth, William Barbour of Scituate, Carol Porter and her husband Steve of Quincy, and Anne Ford of Middleboro, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert Barbour and Margaret (Ward) Barbour.

Born in Boston and raised in Dorchester, Joan graduated from Jeremiah E. Burke High School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Northeastern University, where she graduated summa cum laude. She built a successful career in accounting and later founded her own firm, A&C Accounting and Tax Services. She took special pride in helping her family with their taxes, never accepting payment for her work. Joan shared a deep and joyful life with her husband John, filled with laughter, music, and family. A devoted fan of Elvis Presley, she loved singing and dancing, and even as her memory faded she could still recall every word to her favorite songs. An avid reader who enjoyed playing cards, watching her favorite shows, taking daily walks, and speaking with her sister on the phone, she looked forward each year to gatherings with her brothers, sisters, and their spouses. She was especially proud of her well-kept home on Bay Path.

Above all, Joan cherished her family. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them. Known for her generous spirit, she quietly supported causes close to her heart, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Feed the Children. With her warm heart, gentle humor, and easy laugh, Joan brought kindness and joy to everyone around her and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.