Joan was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Athanasius Parish in Louisville. Joan lived in Chicago for many years where she worked for Montgomery Ward as an Accountant. In her later years Joan moved back to Louisville where she worked and retired from the University of Louisville, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, as an Accountant.
Most of all Joan will be remembered as a beloved sister, aunt, and friend.
Joan is preceded in death by her parents, Robert C. Willinghurst and Margaret (Pero) Willinghurst; stepmother, Ella Dean Willinghurst; sisters Mary Louise Kilkelly, Barbara Gatton; and nephew Christopher “Scott” Wine.
Left to cherish her memory is her sister, Sharron Ellis; brother in-law Pat Kilkelly; niece Shannon Kelting (Chris); nephews Brian Ellis (Jenny), Kevin Kilkelly (Cindy), Sean Kilkelly and niece Brigit Floyd (Chris). Five great nieces and nephews and one great-great nephew.
Visitation for Joan will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, from 2 – 8 PM, with prayer service at 7 PM. A private inurnment to follow at Cave Hill Cemetery on a future date.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Kentucky Humane Society.
Arrangements are under the direction of Arch L. Heady & Son Funeral Home - Okolona Home, "Where Personal and Sincere Service Is Tradition.”
