M. Joann Wolfe, 88, of Williamsport, passed away on Monday, August 26, 2024 at The Williamsport Home. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Marlin H. Wolfe on February 26, 2004.
Born June 25, 1936, in Muncy, she was a daughter of the late Clinton and E. Louise (Lyons) Shipman.
Joann was a proud 1954 graduate of Muncy High School, where she formed lifelong friendships and memories. Her passion for helping others led her to Geisinger Nursing School, where she honed her skills to embark on a remarkable career. For 41 years, Joann served as a labor and delivery nurse at Williamsport Hospital, where she welcomed countless new lives into the world with professional integrity and great care. Following retirement she continued volunteering for the hospital taking blood pressures at the Life Center.
Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life. Joann was a very active 60 year member of St. Luke Lutheran Church, where her faith and fellowship were a source of strength and inspiration. Joann was also a dedicated member of the Williamsport Hospital Retirees group where she maintained connections with her former colleagues and friends.
Her love of nature was deep-rooted and evident through her involvement with the Audubon Society, where she not only enjoyed bird watching but held various offices within the local chapter.
Joann loved being outdoors and found peace and joy in God’s amazing creation whether she was watching wildlife, gardening, biking, hiking, (12,477 feet at age 76!) or simply out walking. Her creative spirit shone through in her hobbies, which included cross-stitching, knitting, sewing, and crocheting.
Traveling was another of Joannás passions, and she relished the opportunity to explore new places and cultures. Her adventurous spirit was matched by her commitment to her community, where she was an active volunteer and a familiar, friendly face to many. She remained connected to her roots, actively participating in the Muncy graduating class and Geisinger Nursing School alumni events.
Joann’s legacy is carried on by her loving family, who were the center of her world. She is survived by her two daughters, Sonya A. Wolfe-Stevens (Michael) of San Diego, CA, and Stacy L. Wolfe (Greg Day) of Williamsport; her brother Roy Shipman (JoAnn) of Lancaster; her sisters Helen Jean Stout of Lewisberry and Linda Kroft (Jim) of Mechanicsburg; and her cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom will miss her dearly.
A memorial service to honor the life of Joann will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, October 12 at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 1400 Market St, Williamsport. A visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until time of service at the church.
Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family in Muncy Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joann’s name to St. Luke Lutheran Church 1400 Market St, Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Lycoming County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Lycoming Audubon Society, P.O. Box 4053, Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Susquehanna Health Foundation c/o Service Line, 1001 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701.
Online condolences may be expressed on Joann’s memorial page at http://www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.
