Joan Elizabeth Latella, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, known for her boundless generosity, peacefully departed this life on October 1, 2023, at the age of 89. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, faith, and compassion that will forever serve as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joan was born on September 4, 1934 in Brooklyn, New York, to her loving parents, Daniel and Vincenza "Jennie" Latella. She was the youngest sister to Marie Baker and Rita Naquin, who she has now happily reunited with in Heaven.

Joan is survived by her three children, James Bonamassa (Janet), Gina Bonamassa Pepe, and Joanne Benasco (Tommy), and was preceded in death by their father, James Bonamassa. She is also survived by her many grandchildren, Domenica (Steve), James (deceased), Daniel (Kimberly), Anthony (Cindy), Angelica, Jennifer (Arnold), Jacqueline, Joseph (Kristen), Thomas, Anthony, Daniel, and Christine, and her great-grandchildren, Joseph, Nicholas, Juliana, Felicity, Victor, Molly, Jude, Emersyn, Lucas, Sierra, Andrew, and Alyse. Beyond those mentioned, she leaves behind many more family members, proving that she was a woman who loved many and was in return, loved by all.

Joan was a woman rooted in family, but also in deep faith and selflessness. Joan's willingness to give to anyone in need was beyond measure. She spent all of her life caring for those around her and giving anything she could, even if it meant compromising her own needs. Her never ending generosity leaves a lasting impact on her family and the community she immersed herself in.

Joan was a devout parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, contributing endless charity whenever and however she could. Her dedication to her faith and to God is one of her most important legacies.

When it comes to her generosity, it is most important to note that Joan was a great friend to animals, having rescued countless pets over the course of her lifetime. If anyone knew anything about Joan, it was that her dogs were just as important to her as her own children. Additionally, Joan was a woman of many careers and hobbies. Throughout her life, her careers have included being a travel agent, a blackjack dealer, and a pianist. Music has always been at the heart of Joan's life, as she was an incredible pianist who spent time studying at the prestigious Julliard School of Music. She continued to play beautiful music until the end of her life, songs that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved hearing her play.

As we say goodbye to the woman that's changed the lives of many, we take comfort in knowing that Joan is now at peace, surrounded by those she has lost and loved and the embrace of God, whom she adored. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Rest in eternal peace, dear Joan.

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In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Joan's memory to:

The League of the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague
PO Box 1045
Westmont, Illinois 60559-8245

or

Sacred Heart of Southern Missions
Father Jack
PO Box 300
Walls, Mississippi 38680-9989

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Visitation

Friday (10/20)  7 - 9  PM

Clavin Funeral Home
7722 4th Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11209
* Complimentary Valet Parking Available *