Joan F (Carpenter) Kokernak - , RI

(04/24/13) Denver, CO – Joan F. Kokernak, 64, formerly of West Warwick, died peacefully on Saturday, April 20, 2013. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Russell J. Kokernak. Joan was born in Fall River, MA on January 21, 1949 to the late Frederick L. and Eileen F. (Brady) Carpenter. Joan graduated from Middletown High School and went on to receive her Master’s Degree from University of Rhode Island where she was an Alpha Chi Omega. Joan began her teaching career in 1971 and she was an elementary school teacher for 28 years. Joan had two children, Jeremy and Stephanie with her first husband, Allan Booth Jr. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 27 she began her long battle with this debilitating disease. Joan enjoyed horseback riding and nature. She enjoyed spending time with others at the MS Dream Center and she was very dedicated to her church, Christian Hill. Joan’s late husband Russ was instrumental in keeping Joan’s love of life alive. She is survived by her son Jeremy Booth and his wife Mandy of Middletown, RI and Stephanie Beazley and her husband Brian of Westminster, CO. Joan had three adoring grandchildren. She was the former wife of Gary Hazzard and the sister of Robert Carpenter. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at 10:00 am at Christian Hill Community Church, 56 Tiogue Avenue, West Warwick. Memorial donations can be sent in lieu of flowers to Christian Hill Community Church, 56 Tiogue Avenue, West Warwick, RI, 02893 or the MS Dream Center, P.O. Box 20185, Cranston, RI 02920. Information and condolences at carpenterjenks.com.