She was born on March 4, 1927 to the late Frederick and Veronica Smith in Toledo, OH. She attended Scott High School in Toledo and then business school. She worked in the office at Willis Jeep for a few years along with her dad, and brothers, Jerome and John.
She met the love of her life, Bill, at the Eddie Hanf Dance Studio in Toledo. After 3 years of dating, they married in 1952. They enjoyed dancing, going to Cedar Point and spending time at the cottage at Bird Lake near Hillsdale MI. She is survived by daughters, Karen (Ray) Dawes and Betty (David) Cox; grandchildren, Renee (Greg) Matney, Lauren (Vince) Avitto (Vince) and Joel Saltzman along with great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She moved to Columbus in 1963. After Bill’s retirement, she wintered in FL for several years.
Joan enjoyed talking to people wherever she met them. She was proud of having a twin brother, John. She loved playing bingo and recently becoming the 2023 Bingo Champ at Westerville Senior Living.
Spending time with friends and family was important to her. “Would you like to go out to dinner” she frequently often ask. When she was asked what type of food or restaurant, she would answer, “anywhere as long as I am with all of you.” She often enjoyed a glass of wine and dessert at dinner
Joan had a sweet disposition and was kind to everyone. She was a long time faithful member of St Anthony Church in Columbus. Her Catholic faith was very important to her.
Although she had a long wonderful life, she will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.
A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, from 4pm until 7pm, at the Schoedinger Worthington Funeral Home, 6699 North High St., Worthington OH, 43085. Mass will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 10am, at St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, 6899 Smoky Row Road, Columbus OH, 43235.
Special thanks to Westerville Senior Living team members who cared for her for the last 4 years and to all of the kind Doctors and Nurses at St Ann’s Hospital who cared for her recently.
Contributions in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer Association or the charity of your choice.
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