Joan Nace

Joan Nace (78) passed on 12/27/25 in Lehigh Valley Hospital. Joan was a beloved and wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, friend, nurse, and referee who is now resting peacefully in heaven. She sustained a very recent heart attack and was newly diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer. She remained strong and suffered very little for the last few weeks but was overtaken by breathing difficulties.

Joan was born on 10/13/1947 and raised in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania with her loving parents Frankie (Peterson) and Joseph Wigglesworth, along with her older predeceased brother, Gary Wigglesworth. “Joannie” went to Marple Newtown High School where she earned best lacrosse player. Joan Wigglesworth proved to be “worth her wiggle” and went on to nursing school at Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia and made a very positive impact on countless patients’ lives. She also was recognized for 25 years of service officiating girls field hockey and lacrosse.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Richard; her caring sons, Rick and James, and their dedicated wives, Lynn and Heather; and five amazing grandchildren, Austin, Taylor, Mckenzie, Brielle, and Cooper.

Joan was a true testament to living life fully and simply and embracing the "3 F's" she loved most: family, friends, and flowers. While gardening and sunflowers brought her much joy, this was no comparison to the immense pride she had for her friends and family.

She had a heart of warmth, giving and caring beyond words. Her ability to make everyone feel cherished will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Fortunately, she was able to spend the family's favorite part of the year, Christmas, together! She was very determined to uphold the tradition and share the holidays with her entire family in Baltimore - where they all visited and had the opportunity to say their goodbye's with extra-long hugs and kisses. Rich remained steadfast by her side and held her hand the entire time. He brought her back to their home of 55 years in Gilbertsville! She assured us, "I lived a great life!"

As we say goodbye to Joan Nace, we celebrate the life of a woman who was a beacon of kindness, love and self-sacrificing. She had energetic charisma and a great smile. Her friends describe her as joyful, upbeat, kind, caring, and selfless with a zest for life. She was giving to a fault, and was never afraid to vocalize good advice to someone---regardless if they wanted it! She worked extremely hard but was always up for a fun adventure and enjoyed traveling. Her legacy is one of unwavering devotion, attention to detail, and honesty. She truly embodied the adage of a life well lived. Joan's memory will be treasured forever, as we hold her close in our hearts and remember the sunshine she brought into this world. Joan's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.

Memorial Services will be held at the Linwood W. Ott Funeral Home, Inc. 111 North Reading Ave., Boyertown, PA 19512. on Wednesday January 7, 2026 at 3:00 PM. Livestreaming will be available to view at https://www.facebook.com/LinwoodOttFuneralHome during the time of the service.

Family and friends may call at the funeral home Wednesday from 2:00 to 3:00 PM.

Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Contributions may be made in Joan's Name to the Boyertown YMCA 301 Spring St., Boyertown, PA 19512 or to the Arthritis Foundation 1355 Peachtree St. NE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30309 https://www.arthritis.org/ways-to-give.