Joan Ellinghaus Gesell passed away on September 25th, 2026, at the age of 86. Dear daughter of the late William and the late Anna Ellinghaus; Beloved wife of the late Nicholas A. Gesell; Devoted mother of Ann Marie Gesell, Tricia Gesell, and Nick Gesell and his wife Nikki; Loving grandmother of Chris, Ashley, Brandon, Zach, Britney, Paul, Josh, Hannah, Lilly, Luke, and Colin; Joan is also survived by many extended family and friends.
Joan deeply loved her children, grandchildren, family, and friends. There are some people whose presence makes life brighter simply because they are in it. Joan was one of those people. Her kindness, laughter and love left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She found happiness cheering on the Baltimore Ravens, eating crab cakes with loved ones and some good ice cream! She truly treasured time spent with family and friends above anything else. Joan will be remembered for her warm heart, generosity, her strong faith, and the way she could make people feel loved and welcomed. Although our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing this goodbye is not forever. We are grateful for every moment God gave us with Joan and look forward to the day we meet again.
A visitation will take place at Schimunek Funeral Home of Bel Air, Inc., located at 610 W. MacPhail Road, Bel Air, MD, 21014 on Tuesday, October 6th, 2026, from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm.
A funeral service will be held at Schimunek Funeral Home of Bel Air, Inc., located at 610 W. MacPhail Road, Bel Air, MD, 21014 on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026, at 10:30am. With an interment to follow at Gardens of Faith Memorial Gardens, located at 5598 Trumps Mill Rd, Baltimore, MD 21206.
