Mary Joan Nuckowski

Mary “Joan” Nuckowski (née Horner), age 79, of New Jersey, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, just days after celebrating her 79th birthday. Born on September 1, 1946, in Philadelphia, Joan devoted her life to family, education, and quiet acts of love and service.

Joan was a dedicated school teacher whose patience, warmth, and unwavering belief in her students left an indelible mark on countless young lives. Her compassion extended far beyond the classroom — she was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, cherished sister, cousin, aunt and friend.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Raymond Nuckowski, and their children: Carl Nuckowski (Claudia Jimenez), Michael Nuckowski (Melody), and Thomas Nuckowski (Sarena). She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren: Emi Jimenez, Caroline “Kaz” Nuckowski, and Sophie Nuckowski, who brought her endless joy and pride.

Joan is also survived by her sisters: Linda Schuster (Paul), Judy Heap (Don), Pat Finkbinder (Paul), and Ginger Wacker. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph R. Horner and Mary Horner (née Tunney), and her brothers, Jim Horner and J-Richard Horner.

Joan lived a life grounded in kindness, quiet strength, and deep loyalty to her loved ones. Whether in the classroom, around the dinner table, or in quiet moments with her family, she led with love.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation at Blake-Doyle Funeral Home on Friday, September 12th, from 11 AM to 12:15 PM. A memorial service will start at 12:15 PM followed an interment at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Blackwood, NJ.