Joan R Stout

Joan is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, David; her loving daughters, Dana Rutha and Kristin Deffler, and her husband Jack; and her cherished grandchildren, Andrew, Alexis, and Emma. She is also survived by her brother Andrew Opalka, his wife Paula O’Brien, her cousins, and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, John and Rose Opalka, her son Timothy James Stout, her sister Patricia Opalka, and her brother John Richard Opalka.

Joan was born and raised in Clifton, NJ. She was a graduate of Montclair State University, earning her bachelor’s degree in teaching. Then, she moved to East Brunswick, NJ, where she was a High School Spanish teacher for many years. In East Brunswick, she met the love of her life, David.

She was a hands-on mom, staying home to raise her children and returning to teaching in 1983.

Joan was a much-loved teacher, receiving letters of praise for her professionalism from her colleagues. In addition, she enjoyed being involved in school activities at East Brunswick High School, including cheerleading and attending school sports and dances with David.

Joan was an avid reader of non-fiction and enjoyed cooking Polish meals for her family and friends. She also loved attending concerts, playing tennis, and traveling. She and David, along with friends and family, traveled across the country and Canada by railroad, taking in the beautiful scenery. While attending college, she excelled at fencing and biology. Joan was a lover of all plants and animals, especially the many dogs within their family. But, above all else, her family and their time together were her happiest. They were the joy of her life.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 5th from 1:00pm-3:00pm at Thos L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard Dr., Manahawkin, NJ 08050

To leave online condolences, please visit www.shinnfuneralhome.com