Joan E. Else Fishburn

Joan (nee Else) Fishburn, 89, who was an integral part of the Amherst Symphony Orchestra for more than 60 years, died April 15, 2022.

Mrs. Fishburn’s life began on Aug. 31, 1933, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The oldest of three children, she took on many responsibilities when her father died when she was 17. While studying music education at Penn State University, she met the love of her life, David Fishburn, in the trombone section, an instrument she also played. When Mrs. Fishburn was 21, she and David married after graduating from college.

When the four Fishburns moved to Williamsville in 1959, Mrs. Fishburn began her love affair with the ASO that continued until her last week of life when she was planning its 75th anniversary concert. Her primary instrument was violin, which she played and taught for over 75 years – the last 60 with her beloved Amherst Symphony Orchestra.

Mrs. Fishburn was not only involved with music in Western New York. She loved God and was involved in various churches from early childhood. The Worldwide Church of God consumed much of her early adult life and enabled her to travel around the world and work with David conducting choirs. Their travels opened up a world of friendship that enriched her life in many ways. The Living Hope Christian Fellowship family has surrounded Mrs. Fishburn with great love and respect for many years until her passing. Mrs. Fishburn’s love of beauty was also displayed through her photography and gardening passions.

She also added a focus on health and nutrition when her son, Bob, became ill and died at a young age. Her desire to help others live a full life was shown by her service helping Dr. Mary Catalano deliver babies at home. Together, they brought over 400 children into the world. Many of those families were included in the rest of Mrs. Fishburn’s life.

Western New York has also showed great respect to Mrs. Fishburn through various recognitions that she received through the ASO.

Mrs. Fishburn is survived by her brother, Robert Else (Pennie); sister, Barbara Moyer (Art); daughter, Elizabeth (Fishburn) Speck (Barry); seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, David; son, Robert; and a daughter, Rebecca.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Amherst Symphony Orchestra at www.amherstsymphony.com/. A Celebration of Life will take place at 3 p.m. June 12 at Congregation B’rith Hadoshah, 50 Alberta Drive.