JoAnn Lola (Barcz) Hinnershitz, 80, of Reading, PA entered eternal rest on Friday, January 10, 2025, at The Manor at Market Square. Born on October 27, 1944, JoAnn grew up in Reading as the cherished daughter of Casimer W. Barcz Sr. and Margaret A. (Heft) Barcz. She is now reunited in heaven with her parents and her sister, Kathleen M. Barcz.
A proud graduate of Reading High School, JoAnn held various positions throughout her career, including bookbinding at Arnold's Book Bindery, working in the mailroom at Baldwin Brass, and ensuring everything was spotless at The Highlands at Wyomissing, working until her well-deserved retirement.
Her kitchen was a haven, where her famous chili earned her husband Harry’s highest praise. The two of them shared a love for daily walks, and trips to their favorite getaway, Cape May. JoAnn was an avid Elvis fan with a strong sense of how things should be and a willingness to speak her mind. Yet, her sharp wit and warm heart ensured that everything she did was grounded in love.
To her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, JoAnn was a rock of kindness. She never raised her voice at them—her warmth and unwavering support spoke louder than any scolding could. She remembered every birthday and special occasion, not just for family but for anyone lucky enough to cross her path. Her sharp mind and generous spirit made her the glue that held her loved ones together.
JoAnn's spirit will be carried on by her beloved husband and soulmate of 60 years, Harry H. Hinnershitz; her 3 daughters Sheila Ayres and her husband Ronald, Cynthia Mogel and her husband Ryan, and Margaret Hoffman and her husband Heath. She also leaves behind her 4 siblings Michael D. Barcz, Casimer W. Barcz Jr. and his wife Jane, Mildred Nielsen and Susan M. Barcz; 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren to cherish her memory.
A viewing for JoAnn will be held Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Auman's Inc. Funeral Home, 390 W. Neversink Rd., Reading, PA 19606. Prayer service will promptly commence in the funeral home at 1:30 PM. Graveside committal will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park, Reiffton.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in JoAnn's memory may be made to Freedom Center For Animal Life-Saving, 1801 N. 11th St., Reading, PA 19604; or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or Disabled Veterans National Foundation, 4601 Forbes Blvd., Suite #130, Lanham, MD 20706.
JoAnn’s legacy is one of joy, love, and a life well-lived. Her family and friends will hold her close in their hearts, forever inspired by the incredible woman she was. Rest in eternal peace, dear JoAnn.
