Joan Gard, 79, of Wooster, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly this week surrounded by the love of family and friends whose lives she touched deeply throughout the years.
Born on July 30, 1946, in Dalton, Ohio, Joan was the daughter of Homer and Betty. She carried with her the warmth, strength, and kindness that defined her life and made her beloved by so many in her community.
On May 20, 1983, Joan married the love of her life, Charles Gard, in Winchester, Virginia. Together they built a life centered on love, family, friendship, and devotion to one another. Their marriage was marked by unwavering companionship and deep affection.
Joan was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Sarah; her parents, Homer and Betty; and her sisters, Karen and Judy.
She is survived by her loving husband, Charles Gard of Wooster; her son, Matthew Riley (Colette Koby) of Portland, Oregon; her cherished grandchildren, Shep, Willow, and Liam, who brought tremendous joy and pride to her life; and her two beloved furry companions, Milly and Mo.
Joan will be remembered for her caring spirit, generous heart, and the genuine kindness she extended to everyone she met. She was well loved by her family, friends, and many throughout the community, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.
Per her request, there will be no public service or viewing. A celebration of life will be held in the near future.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers or gifts to the family, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or at www.stjude.org in Joan’s honor.
Her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched and in the love she gave so freely.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
Chuck, so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and her family.
Our Fra, you will be missed.
Our sincere condolences Charles and Matt.
Murphy and family
RIP Joan 💚☹️
Bernd Wiesmann
The Fra-est of them all! You will be missed.
Chuck, Matt, and Family. You have my deepest sympathy. I have many good memories hanging out with Matt and I always felt welcomed at your home. R.I.P. Joan.
Chuck. So sorry for your loss. Condolences from me and Penny. Enjoy the memories that you two built together.
Chuck. So sorry for your loss.
So many memories remain forever.
Dear Joan,
You will always remain in our memories.
Final farewells from Moni and Reiner
Every time I drive on E. Bowman Chuck, I always wonder how you are doing. And then I see this. I’m so sorry Chuck. I’m hoping all else is well. Prayers and Sympathies Chuck from Scott Gresser.
My dear Charles. There are no words my friend. Best houseboat cook ever. I’ll miss her so. Doonetta.
Chuck, Im so sorry to hear Joan passed away. Thinking of you and the family. Wishing peace and comfort in happy memories.
What a beautiful picture you have chosen of Joan. It captures how lovely she was inside and out. She will be missed by so many.
Sorry for your loss, Chuck.
We used to live on E. Bowman, Sarah and our daughter Angel were best friends. Joan was a lovely lady and I’m sure she will be missed. I know Sarah was waiting for her with open arms. So sorry for your loss.
Dear Chuck,
Our deepest sympathy to you and family. May God be with you in this time of sorrow.
So sorry for your loss Chuck. Joan was a great gal. She’ll be missed by many.
Was a neighbor to Joan and her sister, Judy. We grew up and played together as kids in E. Greenville.
Condolences to the family.
R.I.P. Joannie.
I was so proud to call her cousin! The beautiful picture brought the tears….the strength of her spirit was so evident and her humor and authenticity made every conversation real and elevating. Walk with Sarah till we join you!
Dearest Joan.
What a joy it was to have known you in our early years.
May our Lord hold you in the palm of his hand.
Judie Shisler Bonnett
Matt, I am so sorry for your loss .