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Joan A. Catlett, 75, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, in Vero Beach, Florida, after a brief illness. Through her final days, she was surrounded by beloved family, friends, and Jim, her loving husband of 53 years.
She was born on July 16, 1950, in Newton, New Jersey, the daughter of the late Gordon and Janet Appleman. After graduating from Newton High School, she earned her nursing degree from Muhlenberg Nursing School. She and Jim ultimately settled in Columbia County, New York, which Joan loved for its beautiful sunsets and pastoral scenery.
Joan was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She took great pride and interest in her sons’ lives, always welcoming them home with their families. She loved telling stories of their childhoods and bringing them together for family meals. She delighted in reading to her grandchildren, watching them grow, and picking out the perfect gifts for each of them.
Joan was an active member of the communities where she resided in both Florida and New York. She regularly attended Mass at Saint James Catholic Church in Chatham and Holy Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach. She dedicated many hours of service to the Mary E. Dardess Elementary School and Ghent Food Pantry. She also loved connecting with others who shared her love of books, travel, and mah jong.
Joan is survived by her husband, Jim; children Jonathan (Lauren) of Chatham, NY, Michael (Sally) of Simsbury, CT, and Kevin (Evin) of Park City, UT; grandchildren Avery, Austin, Miles, Claire, Jackson, and William; and brother Richard (Diana) of Loveland, CO.
Joan’s family will gather privately to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ghent Food Pantry at https://townofghent.org/services/food-pantry/
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2026 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
James E Poole - Family friend
February 24, 2026, 12:58 pm
Jim, Jon, Michael, and Kevin: I just learned the tragic news of Joan’s passing. You all know that you’re my favorite family from my Academy years, so it it is with a heavy heart that I write that I am so sorry that your wife and mom is no longer with us.