Joan M. Schueler (Leist), age 96, of New Albany, Indiana, peacefully passed away on September 1, 2026. Joan entered the world on February 8, 1930, in New Albany, Indiana, the daughter of the late Bennett E. Leist and Irma (Weber) Leist.
On August 11, 1951, she married the love of her life, Robert J. Schueler, with whom she built a beautiful life filled with deep devotion and cherished memories.
She was a lifelong member of Saint Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church where she served as past President of the Board of Education, was a member of the Altar Society, and chaired the Bereavement Committee for over 20 years. She was instrumental in establishing girls athletics in the New Albany Deanery. Joan coached volleyball and kickball for 19 years earning her the St. John Bosco Award for her work with youth.
As a dedicated member of her community, Joan retired from the NAFC School Corporation after 27 years as an instructional assistant. She was a volunteer at Marie's Blessings, RSVP, and was an active member of L.I.F.T.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bennett Leist and Irma (Weber) Leist; her husband of 60 years, Robert J. Schueler; her brothers, Bennett and Donald Leist; and a step-granddaughter, Paula Coulter Sims.
Joan is survived by her daughters, Becky (Paul) Banet, Kathy (Rick) Becht, and Robin (Paul) Coulter; five grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren; along with her extended family and friends.
A visitation will be held at Saint Mary's of the Annunciation Catholic Church on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Her funeral mass will begin immediately following the visitation at 2:00 pm. Joan will be laid to rest at Saint Mary's of New Albany Catholic Cemetery in New Albany, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for expressions of sympathy to be made to the American Cancer Society, St. Mary's Catholic Church, or Providence High School.
