Joan I. Edsell

Joan I. Edsell,

of Herrickville, Pa

Joan I. Edsell,  a beacon of love and warmth, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2024, in Towanda, Pennsylvania, at the age of 89. Born on November 16, 1934, in the comfort of her family home in Stevensville, Pennsylvania, Joan was the cherished daughter of the late Carl and Iona (Stanton) Coleman. Her life was one richly woven with the threads of kindness, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to her family.

Her family was the center of her world. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Moyle “Mike” Leo Edsell, who passed away on January 29, 1999, and her sister, Mary Moran, and grandson, Emery Robinson.

Joan’s journey through life was marked by her devotion to her beloved husband, Moyle Leo Edsell, who predeceased her in 1999. Her love and legacy continue through her caring daughters, Patti (Elton) Robinson, Peggy Edsell, and Pamela (Tom) Dickerson, who provided her with loving care in her later years. Joan's spirit will forever be reflected in the lives of her grandchildren — Matthew Robinson, Jacob (Tina) Robinson, Tina (Pat) Maynard, Ginny Dickerson (Chris Walton), and Michael Dickerson (Macey King) — and her great-grandchildren, Aubrey Robinson (Kyle Towner), Avery Robinson, Lillie Maynard, Mallorie Maynard, Emilie Maynard, Mykenzie Dickerson, Devon Walton, Lilly Walton and Lucas Matthews. Her great-great-grandson, Weston Emory, brought her immense joy, and she was excitedly anticipating the arrival of another great-great-grandchild in September.

Joan was a loving sister to Russell Coleman, Shirley Johnson, and Gladys Curtis. Her extended family included many nieces, nephews, and their families, who will miss her dearly but will continue to be inspired by her life.

An alumna of LeRaysville High School, class of 1952, Joan was a woman of many talents and pursuits. Her professional life included roles at the McClaren Dental Office in Towanda, Eastabrook Farm, and Cornell Manufacturing. However, her favorite and most cherished roles were those of a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, where she poured her heart and soul into nurturing her family.

Joan's interests and talents were many, but she was particularly renowned for her exceptional quilting. An avid quilter, she created countless "ugly quilts" — a term of endearment for the beautiful and functional pieces she crafted. Her dexterous hands also produced over 1,500 mittens, hats, and scarves that she generously donated to TACO and the Ugly Quilters, touching the lives of many with her handmade warmth.

Travel was a joy for Joan, especially the bus trips she embarked on with her sister-in-law, Marletta Edsell. Yet, her greatest delight was found closer to home, on the sidelines of sporting events, where she was the proudest supporter of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cheering them on in soccer, basketball, and softball. Joan's love for picture puzzles and crossword puzzles kept her mind sharp and she always had a puzzle to complete.

A faithful member of the Herrickville United Methodist Church, Joan’s life was a testament to her loving and kind nature. Her creative spirit and unwavering support of her family and community left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Joan lived a life full of love, generosity, and creativity. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. We will gather for a memorial service to be held at the Herrickville United Methodist Church at a time to be announced.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com

As we remember Joan, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy of love that will continue to inspire generations. Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Herrickville United Methodist Church or a charity of one’s choice. Caring assistance is being provided by the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols.