Joan M. Destefano

Joan M. Destefano, 92, of Bethesda, MD., formerly of Minersville, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20th, at Suburban Hospital, Bethesda, MD. Joan was born in Pottsville, Pa. on May 15, 1932, a daughter of the late Anna (Kerlavage) and Adolph Anthony Jamitis. She was the widow of Joseph T. Destefano. She graduated from Pottsville High School in 1950.  She was a member of St. Matthew the Evangelist Church of the Holy Family Parish and of the former St. Barbara Church, Minersville. Before marrying, she was employed as a Secretary at ALCOA Aluminum. Joan was an artist and craftsperson from a young age. In her early years she sketched beautiful portraits and landscapes, some of which she recently displayed at an exhibition at her assisted living facility. Her artistic work later focused on sewing, knitting, cross-stitching and a multitude of crafts. She presented gifts that included beautiful baby booties, caps, and sweaters, as well as intricately designed cards that she made for every occasion and were cherished by recipients. She was also a cook who made delicious homestyle meals for friends and family. An avid reader, she passed her love of reading to members of her family and extended family. She enjoyed playing cards and heading out to the bowling alley weekly for many years. While she loved living in Minersville, where she spent 91 years, she also enjoyed living in the Washington, DC area for the last nine months where she moved to be nearer to two of her daughters and her granddaughter. In addition to her parents, and her husband, Joseph, she was preceded in death by a brother Joseph Jamitis, and a son-in-law, David Salovesh. Joan is survived by three daughters, Ann Ashton, Nancy , wife of Anthony Winkler, and Jean DeStefano. Joan is also survived by a sister, Betty Ann Sell, and a granddaughter, Ophelia DeStefano, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. All are respectfully invited to attend a Visitation 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on Tuesday, May 28th, at Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc. in Minersville, PA. A Religious Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 AM with Reverend Jason F. Stokes officiating. Interment Saint Barbara Cemetery. Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan M. Destefano, please visit our floral store.