Joan Keefe Wilklow

Joan Wilklow, a beloved resident of the Greenville, South Carolina community, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, at the age of 91. Surrounded by the warmth of her loving family, Joan left this world with the same grace, humility, and quiet strength that defined her life.

Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, on March 27, 1934, Joan was the daughter of the late Fred and Flo Keefe. A proud alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, she carried her love for learning throughout her life, often with a book in hand, a poem to share, or a thoughtful meal prepared for someone in need. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her gentle spirit touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joan was a devoted member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, where her faith shaped a life of purpose and compassion. She had a remarkable gift for seeing beauty where others did not, particularly in the world of real estate, where she lovingly restored homes to their original charm. Her hands and heart were always busy building, giving, encouraging, and loving.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Wilklow, with whom she shared a beautiful life of partnership and devotion. She is also preceded by her beloved siblings Dave, Marilyn, Jackie, and Judy. She is survived by her dear sister, Marcie Northrop. Joan’s greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her seven children: William Mathews, David Mathews, Sharon Mathews, Susan Norman, Lyn Crozier, Michelle Kilcoyne, and Amy Mathews; and her three stepchildren: Todd Wilklow, Alissa Boswell, and Darren Wilklow. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Michelle Faustini, Marissa Mathews, Jessica Kilcoyne, Shannon Stack, Nathan Kilcoyne, Brittany Littlejohn, Blake Mathews, Bobby Holliday, and Gabrielle Holliday; and her step-grandchildren: Mace Sally, Erich Wilklow, Clay Wilklow, and Jay Wilklow. She was the proud great-grandmother of Ava Faustini, Jack and Mae Mathews, Brooks Littlejohn, Easton and Amelia Stack, Daily, Eden, and Wells Sally, and Ralston Wilklow.

Joan’s life will be celebrated at a memorial service on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 309 Gower Street, Greenville, SC. A Celebration of Life will follow at 3 Club Forest Lane, Greenville, SC 29605.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Joan’s memory to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church or School, causes close to her heart and lifelong devotion.