Joann Langley

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joann Langley, of Chester, MD, at the youthful age of 68 years. On September 3, 2024, surrounded by family, she was peacefully called to be with the Lord after complications from a lengthy chronic illness.

Joann will be missed by her daughter, Heather Langley (of Stevensville), life-partner of 25 years, Steven Rusch (of Chester), sister, Anna Basil, brother, William (Frankie Lee), and sister Fran. There are countless valued nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends throughout the country who will share in her remembrance. Joann is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Evelyn Bergen, sister, Betty Roseberry, brother John Parkinson, and husband, Vincent F. Langley (divorced).

Joann’s heart was filled with love and kindness and her soul was most forgiving. She lived a life of community service as a cosmetologist, bookkeeper/office manager of a family-owned business, and dental courier. However, she was most renowned for her 20-year career of teaching preschoolers. Affectionately known as “Miss Joann,” she took pride in her work and had a significant impact on the lives of every child she encountered.

As a young woman, Joann was a devoted mother. She always said that being a mother was the “greatest gift God ever gave her.” Family and friends would argue that she was the greatest gift God has ever given us. With Steve, she enjoyed going to crab feasts, bull and oyster roasts, and traveling to every casino to play the slots. They enjoyed countless meals together and shared excitement in Saturday morning garage sales to find treasures. She will be remembered by friends for her infectious laugh, silliness, and ability to take a joke.

Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of many, and her spirit will live on forever. She is finally at peace. Her wings were ready, but our hearts were not.

A Celebration of Life is planned for family and friends in September with a burial scheduled at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville on September 30, 2024, at noon.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joann’s honor to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or to the National Kidney Foundation.