Joan M Harrison

Joan M. Harrison, 90, passed away at home on January 2, 2024. Joan was born on February 27, 1933 in Totowa, NJ to Thomas and Edythe Harrison (Juneiman). She grew up in Paterson, and eventually

attended Paterson State Teachers College, which is now William Paterson University. Joan graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, and was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society in education. Joan then went on to earn her Master of Arts in Elementary

Education.

Joan taught for 41 years in the public school system. She began her career in Totowa, where she taught

for 18 years before moving to Manahawkin in 1978. She then taught in the Stafford Township School

District for 23 years. Joan was selected for “Who’s Who Among American Teachers." After her retirement,

Joan continued to dedicate herself to the children of Stafford Township by volunteering in the schools. Joan’s dedication to education was recognized by the Stafford Township School District in 2000 when she received the 1999-2000 Educator Award and was inducted into the Stafford Township School District

Hall of Fame.

Joan’s greatest joy came from being a grandmother. Although she never had children of her own, she was called "Grandma" or "Gram" by many, and she treasured her time with all of them. Joan never turned down an opportunity to see her younger grandchildren participate in activities. She would proudly watch their sporting events, play, concerts, and any other events that came up. Joan also loved animals, especially cats. She was very dedicated to her cats, and loved and enjoyed them immensely. Joan's hobbies included reading, gardening, and dining out. Joan would not miss a chance to go out for a meal with friends and loved ones, relishing the food and company.

Joan was a member of The Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, where she had many friends whom she

enjoyed spending time with. She was a warm, caring person with a kind heart. Joan will be missed by her many friends, "grandchildren" and her two cats, Gracie and Sophia.

A service will be held on January 27, 2024 at The Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, 333 North Main Street, Manahawkin. Calling Time is 10:30 A.M., followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 A.M. Everyone is invited to stay for a Celebration of Life and luncheon immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory can be made to The Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit or the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter in Manahawkin, NJ.

Thos L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard Dr., Manahawkin, NJ was entrusted with the arrangements.