Joan Eleanor Kimes

Joan Eleanor (Gulden) Kimes passed away peacefully under the loving care of Kobacker House and HomeReach Hospice on Friday, November 21, 2025 at the age of 94. Born in Columbus on June 13, 1931 to the late William Walter and Ora Virginia Hedrick Gulden, Joan was preceded in death by her dear husband of 64 years, David; sisters Jeanne Rector, Janet Gulden, Virginia (Francis) Wolfe; son-in-law Jeffrey Dane; brothers-in-law Roy, Fred and Jon Kimes; niece Susan Clark.

Survived by all she dearly loved: daughters Kathleen (Vince) DePaoli and Elizabeth (Steven) Holbert; grandchildren Megan (Tyler Forrest) Dane, Andrea (Josh Ihrig) DePaoli, Ryan (Malorie) Holbert, Sally (Doug) Griesdorn; great granddaughter Gia Griesdorn; special nieces, nephews and cousins.

A lifelong resident of Columbus, Joan graduated from West High School where she met David, and they married in 1951. She worked in the insurance industry, was a longtime member of Riverside Global Methodist Church, and a ‘Friends of the Upper Arlington Public Library’ volunteer. Reading was a passion.

Most importantly, Joan was an integral part of her four grandchildren’s lives. The memories created by her will remain with them forever. Mom will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

Guests will be received from 1:00-2:00PM on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Schoedinger Northwest, 1740 Zollinger Road in Upper Arlington where her Memorial Service will follow at 2:00PM. Rev. David M. Cady officiating.

Mr. and Mrs. Kimes will be laid to rest together at Sunset Cemetery.

If so desired, in lieu of flowers, contributions to the Kobacker House, through the Ohio Health Foundation in Joan’s name, would be appreciated.