Joan R Walters

Joan Ruth Robinson Walters, 92, of Hackettstown, New Jersey, left us peacefully on December 24, 2024. A beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Richard Walters, who passed away in December of 2022; her parents Alfred and Ruth Robinson; her siblings Betty Diernbach, Florence Petruchik, and Glenn Robinson; and her granddaughter Tara Walters.

She is survived by her children Glenn (Patti), Graig, Geoff, and Stasia (Dave); her grandchildren Christopher (Susan), Nathan (Katrina), and Ryan; her great-grandchild Oliver; and her sister Mary Becker.

Her family’s roots run deep in Hunterdon County. Born on June 26, 1932, in High Bridge, New Jersey, Joan was the middle child of five, all of whom went to college, inspiring in Joan a lifelong passion for education.

While at Trenton State College working on a BS in Education, Joan met the love of her life, Richard, and on February 27, 1954, the two were married. Working as a team who not only loved but also truly liked each other, the couple raised their four children in Cranford, New Jersey, until they retired to Califon and Hackettstown. Joan taught first grade for two years when Richard served overseas in the Marine Corps, while parenting her oldest child and carrying her second. Even after leaving her teaching position, she remained involved in education, volunteering for the PTA and “class mom” at her children’s school.

Family was always important to Joan. She spent countless hours organizing holiday gatherings for immediate and extended family, sending out thoughtful cards, and cheering on her children at various sporting events. She encouraged her kids to excel and maintained a warm and loving home that gave them the freedom to grow into independent, educated individuals.

She also loved to travel, planning trips with her children and grandchildren to Viriginia Beach, Disney World, Hawaii, Europe, and other locales.

Joan came from a long line of fabric artists and enjoyed sewing, especially intricate cross-stitched pieces she often gifted to family.

At Joan’s request, there will be no public service.

Donations can be made in her name to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary of Kanab, Utah, one of her favorite organizations.