Joan R Paglialunga

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joan Roadcap Paglialunga, a woman of elegance, grace, and boundless love. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, to parents Jack & Ferne Roadcap, Joan's journey through life was marked by an unwavering caring and loving spirit, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.

Joan's early years were spent in Atlanta, Georgia, where she blossomed into a remarkable individual. A talented athlete, she played high school basketball and was recognized as an All-Star player. After graduating from North Fulton High School in 1959, Joan pursued her passion for dental hygiene at West Liberty State College in West Virginia. It was there that she met the love of her life, Augusto (Gus) Paglialunga, at a dance. Their love story began, leading to their marriage on June 2, 1962.

Throughout their adventures together, Joan and Gus shared a deep bond that took them great distances, from Massachusetts to Munich, Germany, finally settling in various places including Morgantown, West Virginia and Seattle, Washington. Joan's steadfast support for Gus's career in music and academia was unwavering.

Joan's own accomplishments were equally remarkable. She worked as a Dental Office Manager for many years, showcasing her dedication and professionalism. While at West Virginia University, she completed her Regent’s Bachelor of Arts Degree and was recognized on the Presidential Awards' list for all four semesters. Joan's commitment to education extended beyond her own pursuits; she and Gus became Resident Faculty Leaders at Bennett Tower, earning admiration and respect from students for their service and dedication, resulting in a position on the Student Affairs Hall of Fame. Joan and Gus retired from academia in 2007 and moved to the sunny warmth of Gilbert, Arizona.

In every aspect of her life, Joan exuded warmth, kindness, and sophistication. She had a genuine interest in others, always making them feel welcome and valued. Her love for the great outdoors, the arts, museums, animals (most especially her beloved yellow lab, Bacchus), and her family was evident to all who knew her. She never met a stranger and her Southern roots instilled impeccable manners including the old-fashioned joy of sending lovely and proper handwritten notes to friends, family, and acquaintances. Joan was the queen of Parcheesi tournaments and a crossword puzzle-solver extraordinaire. She was an immaculate organizer and expert with her labeling skills and was the family record keeper. Her homemade chocolate sauce was legendary. Joan took great pride in her sons, Dean and Chuck, and cherished her role as a grandmother to Mia and Kinzi.

Joan's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love, compassion, and elegance will continue to inspire us all.

Joan is survived by her loving husband, Augusto Paglialunga; her children, Dean Paglialunga (Lotte) and Chuck Paglialunga (Amy); her grandchildren, Mia and Kinzi; her sister Nancy Roadcap; her brother, Jack Roadcap (Laura; Catherine, Jacob); and a host of other relatives and friends who will deeply miss her.

Joan’s wishes were to be buried alongside her beloved grandmother, Maude, in Marysville, Kansas. Her family will gather in Marysville sometime in the coming months to celebrate her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans Chapter in Mesa, AZ in Joan's honor. Please join us as we honor and remember Joan, who touched our lives in countless ways.

Joan, you will forever be cherished and remembered. XOXO