She was born on January 22, 1931, to the late Jack and Marjorie Lichtenstein and grew up in Tucson, AZ where she graduated from the University of Arizona and was President of her sorority, AEPhi. She established close friendships in Tucson that lasted throughout her lifetime despite Joan spending the last 56 years across the country in Harrisonburg, VA.
After moving to Harrisonburg with her husband and four children, the family happily became a part of the Harrisonburg community and were active supporters of James Madison University, holding season tickets to JMU football and basketball. Joan worked on campus in the office of teacher education where she handled teacher licensing for more than 30 years.
She was known for her kindness, generosity, and love and dedication to her family and friends. Joan was open-minded and accepting of everyone. She was the oldest member of Temple Beth El where she held various roles over the years including serving as sisterhood president and as a member of the board.
Joan was an avid bridge player and was a member of many different bridge groups. Even after she could no longer join bridge games in person due to her declining health, she enjoyed playing online with her friends. She also loved to travel but her favorite trips were annual family vacations to her timeshare in Myrtle Beach which she continued into her 90s.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jay Funston and is survived by her children, Gary Funston (Joyce), Ellen Defriece, Mark Funston (Anita), and Dian Vice (Jeffrey); grandchildren, Matthew Funston (Michael), Rachel Conyers (Devin); and great-grandchildren, Maddox Calhoun and Olivia Conyers.
Her memorial service will be held Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Temple Beth El at 2:30 p.m. with a graveside interment and a reception after the service.
Donations may be made to the Temple at P.O. Box 845, Harrisonburg, VA 22803.
