MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.–Joan Serena, director of trend and product development for Christmas trim at Macy’s, passed away Monday morning, Dec. 19, from cancer. She was 58.

Serena was an industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in product development and sourcing for companies including Associated Merchandising Corp. (AMC), Department 56 and Marshall Field’s, which eventually became Macy’s.

“Joan Serena was a quintessential product expert,” said James Booth, vice president, brand development and marketing, Loftex USA, who first met Serena in 1978 when he joined AMC and Serena served as product manager for stationery and Christmas trim. “She was a master in decorative seasonal home product. She helped to define the product development process [as well as] sourcing product direct from Europe and Asia. She developed private label Christmas programs for the AMC/Federated Department Stores that were the envy of the industry.

“In the last two days so many of the former AMC staff in Asia as well as vendors have contacted me about Joan to express their sadness,” Booth said yesterday. “They had the highest respect for her and many considered her as the primary reason for their company’s success. All are deeply saddened by her untimely passing and send their most sincere condolences to her family.”

Serena’s husband, John Serena, said, “She was as devoted to her family as she was passionate about her work.” Anyone who knew her recognized her creativity and organizational skills, he added. “She made a lasting impression on anyone she met.”

In addition to her husband, Serena is survived by her two children, Katie, 17, and Jack, 11. At her request, no memorial or funeral services will be held.