Joan A. Nilan, age 94 of Shelton, CT, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Thursday April 2, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert Nilan.

Born in Bridgeport, Joan was the daughter of Michael and Frances Forrest Sirotnak. She was a proud Bridgeport resident, graduating from Bassick High School, and worked for the City as the Sealer of Weights and Measures. She was also the first woman to win an election as Bridgeport Town Clerk (until the politics got in the way…!).

Joan loved spending time in Cape Cod, golfing, playing Rummikub, reading, cheering on UConn Men’s and Women’s Basketball, and giving the highest quality treats to her favorite dog, Birdie.

Joan was predeceased by her three sons Michael, Jack and Terence, her much loved granddaughter Colleen Nilan, and is survived by her devoted son Greg and his wife Diana, daughters-in-law, Michele, and Margaret Nilan, her 12 grandchildren: Shannon and husband Matt Burstin, Meghan Doyle and husband Mike, Kelly and late husband Mike Curry, Kira, Chris and wife Emma, Mikey, Sean, Betsy and husband Jonathan Sakakini, Mary and husband Caleb Justis, Robby and wife Courtney, Eddy, and Avery, in addition to five great grandchildren Logan, Declan, Molly, Cooper, Lucy.

Funeral services will remain private and limited to immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joan’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org) To send online condolences please visit www.redgatehennessy.com