Joan M. (Nelson) Salisbury

Jan 10, 1942 - Sept 27, 2026

Joan Marie (Nelson) Salisbury, 84, of Smithfield, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Joan was the daughter of the late Henry Nelson and Marie (Thorn) Nelson. She was a loving, caring soul who opened both her home and her heart to everyone around her. Joan had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, loved, and cared for, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Joan began her working career at the Providence Gas Company, where she met her future husband, Warren Salisbury, in 1959. She left the workforce in 1968 to devote herself to raising her family.

Following Warren’s passing, Joan returned to work in 1980. She worked as a clerk and cashier at Williams Five and Dime until 1984. Later that year, she began a long and dedicated career at Cherry Hill Manor, where she remained until her retirement in 2019. During her 35 years there, Joan served as a Certified Nursing Assistant, MedTech, and ultimately Supply Coordinator and Purchasing Agent. Her dedication to caring for others was a reflection of the person she was throughout her life.

Joan was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and a member of the “Friends Breakfast Club,” where she enjoyed the friendship and companionship of those who became an important part of her life.

In her later years, one of Joan’s greatest joys was spending relaxing holidays at home surrounded by close family and friends. She especially cherished those special times with her sons Robert and William, sister Virginia, friends Jen, Sara, Julia, and her cousin Betsy. The laughter, friendship, comfort, and simple moments they shared brought Joan great happiness and created memories that will be treasured by those who loved her.

Joan is survived by her sons, Robert Salisbury and William Salisbury both of Smithfield, her stepson, David Salisbury of Mechanicsville, Virginia, and her grandson, Slade Salisbury of Mechanicsville, Virginia. She is also survived by her sister, Virginia Nelson of Smithfield, her niece, Kendra (Burns) Convery of West Virginia, as well as many loving family members and dear friends.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Warren Salisbury, and her sister, Barbara (Nelson) Burns.

Joan’s kindness, generosity, and loving spirit touched the lives of so many. She will be remembered for the warmth she brought into the lives of those around her, her devotion to her family, her dedication to caring for others, and the friendships she formed throughout her life.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Elliott Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence, RI 02911.

A celebration of life will be held in the near future, with all family and friends being invited to celebrate Joan and the amazing life she lived.

Joan will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of her family and friends.