Obituary of Joann Stuart

Joann Stuart (née Altomare)

Beloved nurse, artist, musician, and family matriarch

Joann Stuart, longtime nurse manager at Richmond University Medical Center passed away on July 3 surrounded by loved ones after a long battle with cancer.

Born to Joe and Patricia Altomare (née Serpico), Joann built her life on Staten Island, where she spent more than four decades as a respected leader in healthcare. She was the devoted wife of Scotty Stuart and proud Mimi to Ewan Horn. She is survived by her sister and best friend Jeanmarie Engle (Stu) and her siblings Boo Altomare, Patti Mauer (Lowell), Jimmy Altomare, Judy Meicenheimer (Roger) and daughter Catriona Stuart. She was preceded in death by her late brother Joseph Altomare. The many nieces and nephews in her life were her greatest joy — Nicholas, Ariella, Stephanie, James, Joey, Chantal, Ryan, Katie, Leif and Heidi.

Joann served for over 45 years at Richmond University Medical Center, where she managed the Pediatrics and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). In nursing circles, she was known as a fierce advocate for her patients and their families, as well as for her staff. She was tough, unflinching, and unwavering in her commitment—both in the hospital and at home. Yet she would light up with her whole heart every time she heard about the success of one of her preemie “graduates.” 

For her family, she held things together through some of the most difficult times, and never hesitated to show up for those who mattered the most in her life. Through it all she wore a fierce wit and an unshakable sense of humor. 

Outside of work, Joann had a passion for painting and was known for hand-painting jean jackets and Christmas ornaments for her friends and relatives. A talented musician, she played guitar frequently with her husband and taught many of the next generation to pick up an instrument and express themselves through music. She never missed a chance to see The Rolling Stones, even in her final days.

She and Scotty were avid travelers and especially loved taking cruises together with her sister Jeanmarie and brother-in-law Stu. Joann was slowly working on converting everyone else to cruise life.

Joann fought hard—for her patients, for her family, and for her own health. In her honor, let’s hold each other close and keep her memory alive.