Obituary of Joan Eaton-Freeman

Joan (Romanus) Eaton-Freeman passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, at the age of 79.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Jennifer Eaton Kilway and her husband, Ron, of Cleveland, Ohio, and Renee Eaton Lloyd and her husband, Jeffery, of Boston, Massachusetts. She was a devoted and proud grandmother to Najia Lloyd (23), Declan Lloyd (20), Rory Kilway (20), and Amelia Kilway (17), each of whom brought her immense joy. Joan is also survived by her cherished sister-in-law, Marie Romanus, and her many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom she held close to her heart.

Born on November 2, 1946, in New Hartford, New York, Joan was the daughter of Ellen and Raymond Romanus. As the eldest of four children, she grew up with a strong sense of responsibility and care for others. She attended Utica Catholic Academy, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed the values that would guide her throughout her life.

Joan was an accomplished entrepreneur and a pioneer in her field. She owned and operated Joan’s Draperies, a successful, woman-owned interior decorating business, for more than 30 years. Through her creativity, dedication, and eye for beauty, she built not only a thriving business but also lasting relationships with her clients and community.

In 1981, Joan married the love of her life, Edward Freeman. Together, they shared many joyful years marked by companionship, laughter, and deep affection.

Joan will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She lived with warmth and generosity, offering comfort and joy to all who knew her. To her children and grandchildren, she was a constant source of love, strength, and encouragement—always present, always caring.

A memorial service celebrating Joan’s life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 10am at the Church of the Annunciation in Clark Mills, New York, with Rev. Matthew Rawson officiating. All who knew and loved Joan are warmly invited to attend.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service.