Poy Har Gwon, 94, of Burlington, formerly of Boston, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 while under hospice care.

Poy was born in Toisan, a village in Canton, China, but as she approached high school age, the Japanese occupation occurred and she and her family fled to Malaysia. That experience shaped the courage, resilience, and pragmatism that would define her throughout her life. She later emigrated to the United States at the age of 16. At 20, she married the love of her life, Fon Ying Gwon, and together they built a life centered on hard work, devotion to family, and love. After living in Providence, RI, they eventually settled in Boston’s Back Bay, where they raised their family and created cherished memories over many decades.

Poy worked for most of her life as a seamstress and proud member of the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union. She and her husband, a bartender at Cathay Manor, worked tirelessly to provide opportunities and a strong foundation for their children. Strong-willed, resourceful, and quietly caring, she was known for her steadfast devotion to family and friends. In her free time, Poy especially enjoyed playing mahjong with friends, a pastime that brought her much joy and companionship throughout the years.

Poy was preceded in death by her late father Dep Gee Chin, mother Lun Hai Dang Chin, elder brother Billy Chin, younger brother Bing Hing Chin, devoted husband of 63 years, Fon Ying and her beloved grandson, Spencer Dow.

She is survived by her four children: JoAnn Gwon, Lisa and Joseph O’Loughlin, Helene and Roderick Dow, and David Gwon. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Chanelle Dow and her husband Andy Chang, Kristen O’Loughlin, and Katy O’Loughlin, as well as her treasured great-granddaughter, Vera Chang.

Poy is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to gather at Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose for her Funeral Service on Wednesday, May 27 from 9-10:45am, followed by interment at St. Benedict Cemetery, W. Roxbury.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Rose Monahan Hospice Home for the compassion, comfort, and care they provided during Poy's final days. In lieu of flowers, donations in Poy's memory may be made to VNA Care Rose Monahan Hospice Home, 10 Judith Rd, Worcester, MA 01602 or online to www.vnacare.org/donors