Announcement of Death
Joan E. Lawrence (Age 94) of Alexandria, VA, passed away on October 7. get MenuInflater She has been listed in obituaries such as The Morning Call Obituary, MRT Obituary, and The New London Day today.
Biography
The daughter of Joseph and Elsie (Heimlicher) Deegan, Joan was born on July 9, 1930, in Kingston, NY, where her life became a shining example of perseverance and service. She married her lifelong partner, James E. Lawrence, in 1950. They made Ithaca their home in 1958, where they lovingly raised seven children: Joyce, Jim., and Jill. Jane and Janet Thomas Setzer of N.H.wpn (Frank), John (Julianne), Jean Noonan (John Lameres) Her unceasing organizing was a testament to how Joan made her mark on the community. She was very active in different causes—fighting against a nuclear power plant being constructed on Cayuga Lake, working to save such historical sites as the Boardman House and West Hill School.
Loved Ones
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, James; son Jim; daughter, Jean Rojas; and one grandson in infancy; daughter Lola Rightmire preceded her in death. John (Jack) and sister-in-law Florence. Betty is survived by her brother Alan Deegan (Cathie) and children Joyce, Jill (Michael Reardon), Janet (RRod), John. Jean, Jane (Paul); grandchildren Daniel, Kathleen Allison Ian Glen; five great grandchildren The love, kindness, and commitment to community that she always displayed will be lasting in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Memorial Services
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Joan E. and James E. Lawrence Environmental Fund at the Community Foundation of Tompkins County, 200 East Buffalo Street Suite #202A Ithaca NY 14850; this will keep her environmental conservation passion blazing in hearts for years to come instead of flowers.
Closing Thoughts
Through her work with Southeast Asian refugee families, Joan was able to bring both displaced family members and potential immigrants together across oceans. Following their careers, Joan and James enjoyed life on Hunter Lake and Mt. Pleasant, making special memories of neighbors at home as well as traveling internationally. She was the same way when she began to explore literature and politics, eventually working with schoolchildren as a teacher’s aide.
Hobbies
It is said that Joan was a nature lover of the greatest kind, as there was no stopping her once she had touched base with gardening. She was once president of several local garden clubs and passed along her plant love to all who knew here. She was engaged in the community and participated in many organizations. This can be seen in the obits published by Obituary Amarillo Texas, Des Moines Iowa Obituary, and Seven Days Obituary. Life was one of joy, laughter, and leaving the world a better place.
