Joan Elsie Gasper

She graduated from Glen Ridge High School in 1947. Following graduation, she attended LIM College of Fashion in New York City and studied fashion merchandising. She met her husband John in Belmar NJ. They married in 1951. Their love for each other was admired by everyone they knew.

Joan was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and aunt. Joan was an advocate for All Creatures Great and Small especially countless feline family members. She loved cooking and entertaining especially for family and close friends. After Joan and John raised their family, they enjoyed traveling together, most especially taking yearly cruises. Joan loved her home and spending time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed many years of aerobic dance. She was an avid reader, enjoyed music and nature. Joan will be remembered by her great love of family, her generous spirit and her kindness and compassion for all.

Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband John of 46 years, her parents, her sister Carole L Helmlinger and her beloved granddaughter Samantha Joan Fierro.

Joan is survived by her daughter Jody Gasper of Manchester, her son John Gasper Jr and his wife Kim of Lebanon NJ, her daughter Jacqueline Fierro and her husband Carmine of Manahawkin, her grandson Eric Fierro and his wife Robin of Manahawkin, her granddaughter Joanna Fierro of Manahawkin, her 2 great grandsons Louis and Theodore Fierro of Manahawkin, and nieces and nephews who all adored her.

Joan's family would like to give special thanks to the Visiting Nurse Association of Ocean County, especially Lisa Balitzki her primary hospice nurse, Liz Rodriguez her long-term Visiting Nurse and everyone from Visiting Physicians of New Jersey. Also Rhiannon Albury her wonderful home health aide, and Anne McGarry her hospice social worker. Without the support and kindness of all of these people, Joan and her family would have not been able to navigate this journey so easily.

Services will be private.

Those who wish to honor Joan in a special way may make donations to Calling All Cats Rescue 1001 Fischer Blvd, Box 206, Toms River, NJ 08753 or a no-kill animal charity of your choice.