Joan enjoyed playing cards, bingo, bowling, and camping. She was a huge SU basketball and NY Yankees fan, even listening to the games on her small radio when she couldn’t get them on her TV. She was the 1977 Masters bowling champion and still keeps that trophy proudly displayed, but her greatest love was always found in the times she spent surrounded by family, especially her great grandchildren who brought the biggest smile to her face. Affectionately known as “Granny” to them, she always made sure the candy dish was overflowing and plenty of cookies were on hand.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by the love of her life, Bob in 1997; her infant son Mark in 1966 and the sisters she cherished so deeply - Helen and Betty.
Surviving are her children, Debra and Robert (Patti)- both of Skaneateles; grandchildren Michelle (Jim), Danielle (Jamie), Todd (Jaime), Rob (Kate), Brad (Jane); 11 great grandchildren; loving sister Mickey O’Neill; several nieces and nephews that she cherished so deeply; and the “card” girls that were like sisters to her.
Joan will always be remembered as our “Ace of diamonds” and today we raise a glass to her life and the lasting memories of love & laughter she leaves behind.
A private funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s of the lake - Skaneateles on Thursday, June 25th (the birthday of her infant son Mark). With burial to follow at St. Mary’s cemetery where she will be laid to rest alongside Bob.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mottville Fire department, 4149 Frost St - Mottville, NY 13119. The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the nursing staff at Auburn Memorial (3rd floor) and the staff at The Commons Rehabilitation facility for their loving care of Joan over the past year. To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.