Joan Marilyn McClain Williamson

Joan Marilyn McClain Williamson transitioned peacefully at Abernethy Laurels, Newton, NC on January 8, 2025, with family holding her hand. She was 98 years old. Joan was born on July 22, 1926, in Allen County, IN to the late Harold R. and Velma Linker McClain. Joan grew up in Ft. Wayne, IN and graduated from Indiana University with a degree in business administration. There she served as president of her Alpha Chi Omega Sorority and met the love of her life, John Martin Williamson, through a college sorority sister. They were married 64 years until his death in 2013.

Joan often visited the family farm and developed an appreciation for nature and gardening. She loved dancing and studied ballet, tap and other forms of dance throughout her young life. Joan was a talented seamstress who did handwork and made costumes for the Ft. Wayne Ballet. Joan and John moved from Indiana to Hilton Head Island, then to Flat Rock, NC and on to Conover, NC to be with family. She was an avid quilter and member of several quilt guilds in the Carolinas.

Joan loved her church home, Trinity Reformed United Church of Christ in Conover, NC. Although she could no longer attend in her later years, she appreciated the continued cards, prayers, visitations and special connection with Reverend Peggy Stout. Joan was a devoted 56-year “Golden Girl” member of the P.E.O. International Sisterhood, a philanthropic women’s organization dating back to 1869 that supports educational pursuits for women. She volunteered with Foster Grandparents and actively supported the arts. Joan loved to play golf, tennis and entertain friends. She became known for her cookies, particularly the variety produced during Christmas holidays.

Being with her husband and family brought her the most joy. She provided her children with all the love, guidance and support they could have ever hoped for. Joan is survived by her son, John Robert Williamson and wife Kendra Williamson of Fairfield, CT and daughter, Susan Williamson Mallonee and husband, Jerry Mallonee, JR. of Conover.

The celebration of the life and love of Joan Marilyn McClain Williamson will be held Saturday, January 25 at 3:30 pm at Abernethy Laurels Spirit Place, Newton, with the Reverend Peggy Stout officiating. Receiving will follow in the Bistro.

Online condolences may be made at www.drumfh-conover.com. The Williamson family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Drum Funeral Home and Cremations in Conover.

Joan resided at Abernethy Laurels, Newton, NC for the last 12 years of her life. The Williamson family is grateful to the staff, particularly Pavilion Director of Nursing, Jodie Hester, R.N. and her CNA team for their compassion and excellent care. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Trinity Reformed United Church of Christ Legacy Fund, 217 2nd Ave NE, Conover, NC 28613 or The Julius Society at Abernethy Laurels. 100 Leonard Ave NE, Newton, NC 28658.