Joan Sanoff

A star was born on August 1, 1936, daughter of Robert and Ida Murger, who lit up the world of children, friends, and family for 87 years. Educated in Brooklyn, Joan Sanoff held a Master of Science in Education degree. Her education shaped her early career as a teacher of young children in the Brownsville, Brooklyn section. Her husband’s (Henry) academic appointment in Berkeley, California offered her the opportunity to continue teaching young children in a school later named after Rosa Parks. In Berkeley, their son, Ari was born and after one year the three Sanoff’s moved back east to Raleigh in 1966. Several years later the family expanded to include their daughter, Zoe, a Greek name meaning life.

In Raleigh and throughout the state, Joan served as a consultant to the Learning Institute of NC and later as a Headstart consultant to various children’s centers. Her child development knowledge led to her position of Wake County Director of Headstart, where for several years was influential in expanding the services for children and their families. Henry’s Fulbright award to Korea further continued her consulting and lecturing at Ewha University and an opportunity to plan a strategy for developing an Early Childhood Education program at Wake Technical Community College, which was lagging behind other smaller counties. After returning to Raleigh, she convinced the WTCC administration for such a need and was asked to serve as the new Department head where she remained for twenty years before retiring. There she earned many awards as outstanding teacher from students and peers. During her tenure more than 500 students graduated from the program.

Her marriage for 66 years to Henry not only included a son and daughter, but a life of international work and travel. She co-taught and consulted with Henry in Egypt, Australia and Korea, as well with the unionization of farm workers in Florida and planning a child and family center on the Laguna reservation in New Mexico.

In essence Joan was a highly regarded teacher, mentor to students and peers and loving mother and wife. She was beautiful in body and soul, exuding both power and grace, fighting for a more life enhancing, and love filled world for all people. Those who knew her will always remember her unique soul, and heartwarming smile, an inspiration to many. She is no longer with us but will always be remembered and cherished.

Instead of a service please plant a tree or name a plant in honor of Joan as a fond memory.

Service arrangements by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.