Joan Thompson

Joan was born in Newark, NJ in 1935 but resided in Belleville, NJ. Joan was the oldest of three children born to James Brady and Eleanor Connolly Brady. She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald Thompson, and two brothers, James Brady and Robert Brady. Surviving are sons Ron Thompson (Judy), Steven Thompson, daughters Lynn Mottola (Michael), and Lauren Thompson. Also surviving are eight grandchildren including Nicole Leager, Michael Mottola, Kevin Mottola, Steven Mottola, Connor Thompson, Garett Thompson, Parker Thompson and Alyssa Thompson, as well as six great-grandchildren Camryn, Jace, Maisyn, Rowyn, Mackenzie, and Jaxson.

Joan attended Belleville High School where she joined the cheerleading squad. Belleville High is also where Joan met the love of her life, Ron, who played on the BHS football team. Both Ron and Joan were well known for their dancing skills. Joan graduated from BHS in 1953, married Ron in 1957 and went on to raise four children. The family eventually moved to Long Valley, NJ where Joan created an amazing life for her family.

Joan had worked part-time in the cafeteria at Old Farmers Elementary School in Long Valley before beginning a job at the Post Office located in Califon. She was most proud of the fact that she was the first woman hired to work as a clerk. She loved the many people that would come in daily just to chat with her. Joan and Ron enjoyed their summers with family and friends at their second home located on Lake Wallenpaupack, PA. Daily activities included boating, fishing, waterskiing, swimming and cocktails on the dock. Ron and Joan ultimately set sail for the South in 1988 where they bought their dream retirement home in Wilmington, NC.

Joan quickly made lots of friends and loved hanging out at the pool with the ladies from the neighborhood. She loved to stay busy. She had a “go and do” personality. The busier she was, the happier she was. Her kids were always amazed at how much energy she had and how she was always ready “to do something”. She enjoyed dancing, walks, bike riding, boating, traveling, reading, going to the gym and taking rides. Mom loved her family and grandkids most of all. Spending time with them meant the world to her. She truly treasured the simple things in life. When mom could no longer drive herself to the gym, her friends stepped in to lend a hand. Her family was very appreciative of this kind gesture because mom never wanted to miss her aerobics class. Joan’s family would also like to thank Lower Cape Fear Lifecare and all the healthcare providers that personally assisted caring for Joan. Your dedication, love, support and professionalism will not be forgotten.

Mom would like to be remembered for her love of family and friends, her zest for life and a spirit always ready for the next

adventure.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at Bluewater Waterfront Grill, 4 Marina St., Wrightsville Beach, NC, 28480. Please RSVP by October 10th (but no later than 15th, for headcount) to [email protected]

Overnight guests: Lot's of places to choose from between Wrightsville Beach to Carolina Beach, the choice is yours. While we hope you can attend the Celebration of Life for our mom, we understand if you can't and know that Joan is in your heart.

In lieu of flowers please send donations in Honor of Joan Thompson to Lower Cape Fear Life Care (https://lifecare.org/get-involved/ways-to-give).