Joan M. Jeffcoat

Mrs. Joan Marie Jeffcoat, age 73, of Iola, passed away Monday, July 13th, 2009 at Crystal River Nursing & Rehab. Center in Waupaca where she had been a resident since 2006. Joan was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on July 27, 1935, the daughter of the late Manuel and Mary (Dutra) Sylvia. She married Arnold D. Jeffcoat on Jan 30, 1958 in Tiverton, Rhode Island. He preceded her in death on July 18, 2008. Joan grew up in New Bedford, MA. She graduated from New Bedford High School, and became a registered nurse upon graduation from St. Luke's School of Nursing, also in New Bedford. She met her late husband Arnold while working at St. Luke's Hospital, and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2008. Joan is remembered fondly by former patients and co-workers, as an extremely caring and compassionate nurse. During her 48 year career, she worked at hospitals in New Bedford, MA., Waco, TX., Sidney, OH., and Iola, WI. She retired in 2005 after many years at Crystal River Nursing and Rehab. Center in Waupaca, WI. Joan was extremely talented in many areas: oil painting, drawing, rosemaling, knitting, cooking, cake decorating, and she won awards for her cherry pies. In her younger years, she was a gifted pianist. Her love of animals was legendary, and throughout her life she raised many dogs, cats, and horses. Joan was an inspiration to all who knew her. She is survived by her Daughter: Pamela (Michael Beaster) Jeffcoat of Sister Bay; Son: Alan (Heidi) Jeffcoat of Racine; Grandchildren: Haley & Abby Jeffcoat; Special Cousin: Marie Dennehy of Medford, Massachusetts. Joan is also survived by other relatives and friends. A gathering of family and friends will be held at the Voie Funeral Home in Iola on Tuesday, July 21st, from 4-6 P.M. followed by a Prayer Service at 6:00 P.M. RoseMary Salzman will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Joan Jeffcoat may be made to the Waupaca County Humane Society or to Red River Riders Therapeutic Horseback for the Disabled, N6669 Cherry Road, Shawano, WI. 54166. Online condolences can be made at www.voiefuneralhome.com.