Joan Dorine (Harlan) Spence, 89, of Reading, MA, died November 30, 2019 at the Prescott House in North Andover. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, Ernest G. Spence, who was her constant loving support throughout the years.

She leaves her daughter, Linda D. Spence of North Andover, MA; her daughter Betsy J. Harlow and her wife, Reneé, of Louisville, KY; and her son, Harlan E. Spence of Newmarket, NH. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Todd Griset and his wife Olivia; Emily Griset and her husband Andrew Chin; Margaret Griset Sullivan and her husband Chris, Catherine Griset, Elliot Spence, Isabel Spence, Nathaniel Spence, and Alexa White and her husband Dave; as well as eight great-grandchildren, Lucy and Charlotte Griset, Genevieve and Theodore Chin, Finn and Murray Sullivan, Caleb and Camden White. In addition, she leaves her brother George S. Harlan, Jr. and his wife Charlotte of Reading, MA. Joan's life was also enriched by nieces and nephews, a multitude of cousins, and countless friends.

Born on September 6, 1930 in St. Louis, MO, Joan was the daughter of George S. and Grace (Cole) Harlan. When she was two, the family moved to Ardmore, PA where her brother, George was born. In 1940, the family moved to Newton, MA. After graduating from Newton High School, she attended Boston University, graduating in 1952 with a Bachelor's of Arts in Romance Languages and Literature. She was proud of her membership in Phi Beta Kappa. In 1954, she earned a Master's degree in Religious Education from the School of Theology at BU.

While at school, Joan met Ernie and they were married in 1952 at the Newton Center Methodist Church. In 1954, they moved to Reading, MA and joined Old South United Methodist Church.

Joan was a life-long educator. While raising and teaching her three children, Linda, Betsy and Harlan, she was active in Sunday School and other youth groups. As the children grew, Joan was a substitute teacher in the public schools. From 1973 to 1987, Joan taught English at Bedford High School. Throughout the years, she touched many lives and treasured the long-lasting connections she had with former students.

Joan and Ernie had a deep and abiding love for their family, not only locally, but also those around the world. Contra dancing and the dance community were an important part of Joan and Ernie's life since the 1950s. One of their greatest gifts was their ability to network and connect with family and friends, bringing everyone closer together. Joan spoke often of her "Circle of Love."

Joan had a deep seated faith in God and believed deeply in giving service. A life-long Methodist, she was active at her local church as well as at the district level. Her legacy will continue as others whom she has influenced give back to their own communities.

Joan was an accomplished seamstress and quilter. She made her own wedding dress and bridesmaids' dresses as well as wedding dresses for her daughter, granddaughters, and others. Her children and grandchildren were often dressed in outfits by Joan. Her wall hangings, quilts, and pillows grace many homes.

A funeral service celebrating Joan's life will be held at Old South United Methodist Church (6 Salem Street, Reading) on Thursday, December 5th at 10am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Funeral home visiting hours are Wednesday, December 4th from 4-8 pm at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home (25 Sanborn St. - corner of Woburn Street, Reading). After the funeral service, burial will be in the Forest Glen Cemetery, Reading followed by a collation at Old South.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joan's memory to Old South United Methodist Church in Reading, MA. 01867.