NORTH ADAMS, Mass. —  

Mrs. Joan A. (Millis) Carrigan, 80, of North Adams, died on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield.

She was born in North Adams on December 12, 1944, daughter of the late William Millis and Flora (Chenette) Millis Granger. She attended schools in North Adams and graduated from the former St. Joseph’s High School.

Joan was the co-owner and operator of the former Corner Lunch in Adams for many years until her retirement on June 26, 2022. She brought warmth and wit to every corner of the diner, where regulars quickly became family.

She was a communicant of the former St. Francis of Assisi Church in North Adams.

Her cherished husband, Richard M. Carrigan—affectionately known as Dick—was her soulmate. She married Dick on October 22, 1966. They shared more than five decades of love, partnership, and laughter, and his passing in 2023 left an ache in her heart that never faded.

Joan loved fiercely and without reservation. Her family and close friends were everything to her. She was endlessly generous with her time, always showing up for others. Together with her beloved husband Dick, they became known as "Uncle Dick and Aunt Joan" to more than just their nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her two brothers, Richard Millis of Pittsfield, MA and Daniel Millis of Whitsett, NC, as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved deeply. She was predeceased by her brother, William Millis.

Per Joan’s request, there are no funeral services.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

The PACIOREK FUNERAL HOME, 13 Hoosac St., Adams, is in charge of arrangements.

To leave a message of condolence, please go to www.paciorekfuneral.com.