Obituary of Joan M. Armao

Joan Marie “Joanie” Armao, 77, of Troy, peacefully entered into eternal life at home surrounded by her loved ones on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

Born in Troy on January 21, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Samuel J. Armao and Frances A. Chiovini Armao.

Joanie was known to be very funny and outspoken. She enjoyed listening to music, coloring, playing board games, attending church, going on outings, shopping, dining out, having coffee, and sitting outside with her radio when the weather was nice. She loved helping her housemates and the loving staff at her residence with chores. Joanie especially loved spending quality time with her family and visiting their homes on special occasions.

Joanie’s parents and sisters were her strongest advocates and they worked tirelessly to ensure that she lived the happiest and healthiest life possible. She was a lifelong recipient of the services offered through The Center For Disability Services and lived at the Freihofer House in Troy, a Center residence, for over twenty years. She also attended Day Program.

Joanie is the cherished sister of Teresa Califano of Halfmoon and Dawn (Terry) O’Neil of Clifton Park, adored aunt of David Califano of Halfmoon and Tonya (Richard) Mendivel of Henderson, Nevada. Joanie had a very special relationship with her cousin, Lee Keneston of Rensselaer. She was loved by so many compassionate caregivers, friends, and housemates at the Freihofer House and the staff at Day Program.

Relatives and friends are invited to the John J. Sanvidge Funeral Home, Inc., 565 Fourth Ave (at the corner of 115^th Street in Lansingburgh) Troy, NY 12182 on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 for Calling Hours from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. A Service will begin 11:30 a.m.

Interment will follow at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville where she will be reunited with her parents.

A special thanks to the staff at Freihofer House who went above and beyond our expectations to give Joanie love, support, and care in her time of need. Also, Joanie’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Samaritan Hospital in Troy and The Community Hospice in Albany for their care and concern during a very difficult time.

Those desiring, may make memorial contributions in memory of Joan M. Armao to The Center for Disability Services Foundation, 314 South Manning Blvd, Albany, NY 12208 or by visiting the website at cfdsny.org and accessing the Giving section.

Please share a memory on the Tribute Wall with the family.