Joan was born on November 8, 1953, in Newark, NJ to the late George and Frances (Malzahn) Towle. Her childhood and formative years were spent in Branchville, before finally settling down in Newton where she spent the past 3 decades growing roots and forging relationships in her community.
Joan was a lifelong parishioner at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, which began while attending “St. Joe’s” for grammar school. Joan went on to graduate Pope John High School in 1971 and furthered her eduction by taking classes at Ramapo College.
Joan lived a life devoted to her family, faith, friends…and plants, known, as she was, for her green-thumb. She could often be seen at family functions with a camera in her hand- capturing and preserving generations of loving memories and decades of special events- for which her family is forever grateful. “Joanie” will mostly be remembered, however, for her appreciation of music; from regaling concert stories, to her robust record collection, to her Chris Cornell obsession.
Professionally, Joan dedicated over 20 years of her life to Newton Medical Center, where she was known for her kindness and unwavering commitment to the well-being of patients and colleagues alike. In more recent years, she brought the same level of care and compassion to United Methodist Communities at Bristol Glen in Newton, forming cherished relationships with residents and staff alike.
Joan is survived by her beloved daughter, Beth Towle of Phoenix, AZ; her siblings, George Towle (Ann) of Washington, NC, and Jennifer Copeland (James) of Slate Hill, NY as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, Joan was predeceased by her siblings, Geoffrey, Mary and Helen Towle.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 12 pm – 4 pm at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High Street, Newton, NJ.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 24 Halsted Street, Newton,NJ.
Interment to follow at Pine Hill Cemetery in Sparrow Bush, NY, and will conclude with a repast at the Sparrow Bush Firehouse, 79 Main Street.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
