Joan Eileen Zaleski of Westhampton Beach died peacefully at home on February 18, after a long and courageous battle with glioblastoma. She was 77.

She was the wife of H. Alexander Zaleski.

Born in West Hartford, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late David and Isabelle Godfrey. After she graduated from Conard High School in West Hartford, Connecticut, in 1964, she went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in French at the College of New Rochelle.

She was a pioneer for working mothers, forging a successful career in financial services. She was a certified financial planner for over 30 years in Westhampton Beach, and helped many businesses, individuals, municipalities and families plan and secure their financial future.

She was a philanthropist, donating to many organizations and also supporting many charities, where she helped with financial planning for special needs families.

She will be remembered for her kindness and gentle soul.