Joanne Franceski

Joanne is survived by her three sons: David of Union Dale, PA; Michael and his wife Krissy of Elizabethtown, PA; and John and his wife Christine of Hoboken, NJ. She was the beloved grandmother of three grandchildren: Lola, Harper, and Brynn all of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She is predeceased by her parents, Dr. Gordon and Josephine Brubaker, and her sister and best friend, Mary Beth Lennox.

Joanne was born on February 7, 1944, in Palmerton, PA. She graduated from Palmerton Area High School in 1962 and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Villanova University in 1967. Her education and dedication to service led her to a fulfilling career in nursing, including nearly 25 years at Palmerton Hospital. As the Nurse Manager of the Medical-Surgical unit, Joanne was known for her compassion, skill, and unwavering commitment to ensuring her patients received exceptional care. She was deeply proud of the hospital’s ability to blend clinical excellence with the close-knit spirit of a small-town community. She retired in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of care and dedication.

In 2013, Joanne moved to the Bristal, an independent senior living community in Woodcliff Lake, NJ. There, she embraced her new chapter with grace. She was a member of the resident council, food and entertainment committee, and literary club, while discovering new passions for painting and knitting through the various arts programs.

Joanne was an avid reader, always with a book or article to dive into. She loved tackling crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and Wordle, and her green thumb ensured her apartment was always brimming with flourishing plants. A lifelong Villanova basketball fan, she cheered on the Wildcats and had a deep appreciation for classic films, as well as a love for a good show, especially on PBS.

She was a devout Catholic and an active member of her parish, most recently Our Lady Mother of the Church. She found joy in singing hymns during Mass, where her faith and love for music came together.

She loved to laugh and cherished moments of connection with friends and family, even better if paired with a glass of wine.

Above all, Joanne was most proud of her role as a mother and grandmother. Her love, wisdom, and humor will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.

The family plans to hold a private memorial service at a later date to celebrate Joanne’s life. In lieu of flowers, they kindly request you spend as much time as you can enjoying your loved ones.