Joan Allison (Wolfe) Colbert

WELLS – Joan Allison (Wolfe) Colbert, 70, of Wells, formerly of Andover, Mass, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Oct. 10, 2025 following a period of declining health.

Born on May 13, 1955, in Minneapolis, Minn., Joan was the daughter of the late John Allison Wolfe and Suzanne Helen (Bothwell) Wolfe. She grew up in Roseville, Minn. before the family relocated to California and later Massachusetts for her father’s work with Honeywell.

A graduate of Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Joan began her career with Peat Marwick in Boston and later worked at Baird Atomic and Autographix, where she was known for her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail.

After starting her family, she devoted her time and talents to raising her children and contributing deeply to her community.

Joan was active in the Andover Newcomers Club and Empty Nesters, the General Society of Mayflower Descendants, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was also an active volunteer in her children’s schools, and brought her characteristic kindness and organization to every role she took on. After retiring to Wells, Joan was a founding member of the Old Marsh neighborhood book club, fostering both friendship and a shared love of literature within her community.

Friends and family will remember her for her quick wit, steady support, and ability to make any gathering feel special. She loved researching family history, trying new recipes, working on puzzles and games, and walking the beaches in Maine. She delighted in hosting family holidays and exploring particularly via road trips, and had recently fulfilled her goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states.

She is survived by her loving husband, John Colbert; her children Allison (Maurice), Brad (Mandy), and Matt, and stepsons John and Jason (Kelly). She was a proud grandmother to Colin, Ava, and Layla, and eagerly awaited the arrival of a new grandson in 2026. She also leaves behind her brothers Rich (Sue) and Steve (Hadass); along with a large extended family and dear friends.

The family will gather for a private burial the week of Thanksgiving. A celebration of Joan’s life is planned for Wells in late spring or early summer 2026. We invite friends to check back on this site for updates as plans are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, in memory of Joan Colbert, to support cancer research and patient care at

P.O. Box 849168

Boston, MA 02284 or via

http://www.dana-farber.org/gift.