Jo-Ann (Poland) DeLaurier, 72, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026, with her daughter by her side. She was born on September 19, 1953, in Plainfield, NJ. She lived in Bridgewater, NJ while raising her children, and returned to Plainfield, NJ in her 50’s where she ultimately retired.
She graduated from Plainfield High School in 1971, worked as a stay-at-home mom to provide a safe and well-rounded upbringing for her children, then transitioned into a career in the banking industry. Jo-Ann retired from UBS in 2021 and was enjoying the shower pace of retirement. She loved cruising, having taken 25+ cruises with her daughter Michelle, spending time with her son and grandchildren and spoiling her beloved cat, Felix.
She was an avid reader and loved Steven King, and Anne McCaffrey books amongst many other authors.
She is survived by her beloved children Kenneth DeLaurier and his wife Mio and Michelle Bentzel and her husband Bill, cherished grandsons Gavin and Andrew, sister Linda Murray, and brothers Richard Poland and wife Kathryn and Michael and wife Pam, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth and Richard Poland, and husband Kenneth DeLaurier.
Memorial services will be held in the near future
Condolences
I was Jo-Ann’s next door neighbor and friend who often joined her on her porch(or mine) in the summer for a glass of wine. We had a lot in common and had similar experiences growing up. I have a great picture of us on the way to vote for Kamala ! We also went out to dinner often and she would let me use her yard for my BBQ’s where she met a lot of my family. I too have a love of cruising and I’m grateful we did get to cruise together with our daughters and some of my family two years ago. It was wonderful. I will miss her for her humor and generosity. She was one of the best friends you could have.
I am very sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family. She will be missed.