Joan Catherine Stafy, 81

Joan Catherine Stafy, age 81 of Frederick, PA passed away on March 4, 2026. Joan was born on January 21, 1945 in Reading, PA to Arthur and Erna Crist.

Brilliant, thoughtful and devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Joan was a woman of deep faith and volunteered regularly as a parishioner of Most Blessed Sacrament Church.

A graduate of Wilson High School, Saint Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing, Cedar Crest College with a BS in Nursing. From then she completed a Masters Degree in Healthcare Administration from Saint Joseph’s University. Throughout her career Joan worked as a nurse in many settings including the operating room, where she spent most of her time. Joan also worked in the pharmaceutical industry, using her clinical expertise to analyze patient data on emerging medicines.

Joan worked as a visiting nurse, bringing comfort to patients and families. It brought her joy to be of help in people’s time of need.

Her entire life was committed to service. Joan volunteered her time and resources to countless groups including Saint Francis Academy, Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Meals on Wheels and more.

An avid quilter, baker and gardener who spent hours every week creating beautiful handmade gifts for her friends, family and countless community donations. Joan was a supporter of numerous charity organizations and donated her time and talents whenever the call came.

Joan loved animals and fostered dozens of cats and dogs throughout her life, providing veterinary care and food. Her beloved dog Jill and her cat Toby were constant companions.

Survived by loving husband of 59 years, Louis, daughters Katherine and Jessica, son in law John, and beloved granddaughters Katia and Greta.

Joan leaves an immeasurable void however we are grateful for her many blessings on our family and friends.

A Funeral Mass for Joan will be held Friday March 13, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 610 Pine Street, Bally PA 19503. Visitation will be held from 10:00am to 10:45am at the church. Burial will follow Mass at the church cemetery.

Add My Condolences

Ironic, that I met Joan at a funeral. After a spending a few minutes with her and Lou, at the church. At the reception Joan told Marykay, I was a keeper. Marykay has relieved that moment, with me, many times. What can I write about Joan that has not already been written. I am lucky to of met her. I am lucky to of enjoyed some time with her. I wll cherish the breakfast, lunch, and dinners we shared. My thoughts and prayers are with Lou her husband of over sixty years, and her daughters Katherine and Jessica.

~ Edward Lerma Sun City, AZ
3/11/2026 10:39:07 AM

Thoughts and prayers for Joan and her family. She was truly a caring and great nurse. Always helpful to work with. Sincerely,
Donna Kieffer

~ Kieffer Donna Pottstown, PA
3/10/2026 12:28:53 PM

Dear Louis and Family of Joan Stafy,
The Office of Alumni Relations at Saint Joseph’s University sends prayers and condolences on this very sad occasion of Joan’s death. The University honors our graduate of 1995 who completed an MS in Health Administration, a degree which enhanced her ability to serve others while already committed to health services for many years.
Joan will be remembered not only for her personal love and care but also for so many hand crafted gifts given to family and friends.
May Joan rest in the hands of God. Her name will be entered in our Chapel Memorial Book listing the names of deceased alumni, relatives and friends. Her name will remain there for a year. All those listed share in prayers during all the Masses said in our University Chapel.
We regret that we are unable to greet you in person.

~ George Bur, S.J. Merion Station, PA
3/10/2026 10:24:26 AM

Joan was a wonderful, dedicated nurse and a pleasure to work with. My deepest sympathy to her family.

~ Dr. Richard Saylor
3/9/2026 7:03:00 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time! She has been called home to our heavenly Fathe

~ Rose Sparano
3/9/2026 6:53:03 PM

A very Special person has been called home! You will be missed

~ Helen Weaver
3/9/2026 6:48:11 PM

We all will miss you and Remember

~ RONALD F. STAFY and Virginia A. Yarnall STAFY and Sons
3/9/2026 3:16:11 PM