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Joan Frances Cooke, 76, passed away on Nov 15, 2024, at VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, FL surrounded by her loving husband and loved ones.
Joan was born in Baltimore MD, Oct 1, 1948 to Wayne and Frances Cooke (Cwalina).
She is survived by her husband, James William (76); adult children, James Jeremy (51), Jenevieve Marya (48) [Jeremy Slagoski], and Jessica Therese (46). No one’s face shone brighter than when Joan was with her grandchildren, Elijah Michael Nelson (25) [Emily Stiers] and Autumn Cecilia Coulee Nelson Slagoski (16).
Joan graduated from Westminster High School in MD in 1966. She then pursued a degree in Music Education from Notre Dame College in Baltimore MD. After graduating in 1970, she married James Nelson on June 6th the same year. The couple was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany before they settled in Westminster, MD to raise their family. Joan was a stay at home mom during her children’s younger years but always had a strong Catholic faith. She believed her faith led her to acts of service. Joan started the first soup kitchen in Westminster, MD, Loaves and Fishes. She and her family were active members of Resurrection Farm, a homeless shelter that served Carroll County, MD until it closed in 2001.
Joan returned to school and received a master’s in clinical social work from University of Maryland Baltimore County in 1988. She then worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker until 2010. Joan was multi-talented and very smart. She loved painting, crafting and traveling. She loved having a good time, playing host and making great food for her people. After retiring Joan and Jim moved to Vero Beach Florida where they lived for the remainder of her life. She was an active member of her Vista Gardens community and was elected to a seat on their executive board. She loved her Stitchers and Contemplative Prayer friends, but the biggest highlight of her twilight years was watching her grandchildren, Eli and Autumn grow up.
A celebration of life will be scheduled at a future date. If you would like to make a donation in her honor, please consider VNA Hospice House, https://foundation.vnatc.com/now/
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Herbert Nelson - Brother in law
November 20, 2024, 6:35 pm
Condolences to my brother Jim Nelson and his family and friends as they all cherish Joan Nelson’s memories today and as time passes. I remember meeting Joan through my brother Jim when they were dating in the late 1960’s! Attended their wedding in 1970 and certainly congratulated them over the years as they raised their three children Jenevieve Jessica and Jeremy. It was always fun for my three children Michele Laurie David to get together with Jim and Joan children as they grew up, especially for special occasions, weddings and holidays. The last special occasion occurring March 2024 at at the wedding of her grandson Elijah and Emily’s Nelson’s Wedding. She was a wonderful lady, who always made delicious meals and desserts. All of us are going to miss her in our lives! ❤️
Mason - Friend
November 20, 2024, 8:49 pm
Sending my deepest condolences and love to your family. I’m glad you have such beautiful memories to cherish, and in these your mom will live on forever.
Deborah Ann Myers - Sister-in-law of Joan
November 21, 2024, 9:38 am
Sad for the loss of Joan. she was a Great person, Away willing to help and do all for you. Sending prayers. I know how hard it is for the loss of a spouse. God is good she is a peace now. Very sad I can not come its been 3 1/2 months for my knew to be replaced. Hard for my to get around Love all of you, Sending Hug ,prayer and all my love , Deborah Myers
Mary Burkins - friend
November 21, 2024, 5:28 pm
As the Office Administrator of the Center for Spiritual Care, I knew Joan, as a wonderfully kind, loving and contemplative person. She was very active in our Centering Prayer group here, and we will definitely miss her! We are grateful for all of her service and presence here with the Centering Prayer group. I am sending her family, and all of her loved ones, prayers for comfort and healing. Sincerely, Mary Burkins
Trudy Carlson - Friend
November 21, 2024, 6:25 pm
Joan was one of the sweetest, kindest, friendliest people it was my privilege to know. She will be greatly missed by everyone.
Sarah Hartigan - Friend
November 21, 2024, 6:41 pm
Joan was a beloved and dear friend. We first met at the Silvertones Chorus in Vero Beach over a decade ago. We carpooled weekly to singing practice, and attended many other activities together, including Centering Prayer, concerts, VMA films, Vista Gardens gatherings and meals with friends and family. Joan was a host extraordinaire and will be sorely missed.❤️
Jean McGovern - friend
November 23, 2024, 7:14 pm
I remember Joan’s light-heartedness and laughter each time we met for Mahjong at her home. Also always special was the invitation to the Seder dinner which she prepared each year. Joan will always be in my prayers.
Marion Czaja Morgan - Friend
November 24, 2024, 12:03 am
Joan was a delightful giving friend. So glad to share time in prayer with her and celebrating the Passover dinner in her home. So glad we know she is with our Lord and Savior. Prayers for her husband and family. Marion
Danelle Kosciarz - Friend
November 24, 2024, 5:22 pm
Joan was a very dear friend. We first met many years ago at the Lenten films at Holy Cross. Joan intiated a friendly hello. She expressed an interest in joining a Centering Prayer group. That sparked and developed to our lasting friendship. Joan was a joyous, loving, caring, and most generous person. We shared laughter, sadness, and much support in our journey. Joan will be greatly missed by all who knew her.