Joanne Bechtold

Joanne Bechtold

Everyone knew Joanne’s top priority: her family always came first. Regardless of how late her daughters were out, they’d find the house lights coming on and the garage door opening when they pulled into the driveway. A helicopter mom before that was a thing. And Nana took it to a new level with the grandkids; they adored her. She loved doing crafts, a regular at the Library Craft club. For Christmas, everyone in the family worked with her to create dozens of handmade ornaments. She made lots of ceramics over the years. Most she gave away to family and friends. Sometimes they wanted them, other times she softly cajoled them into taking them with a smile and a “Don’t you want this?” If her T.V was on she’d be checking out the Hallmark Channel and Jeopardy. Sundays found her wearing Eagles green, a true-blue fan; she never forgot her Roxborough roots. You couldn’t stop the girl from shopping: if she left the area, she’d most likely be heading out to the outlets and Sam’s Club was always on the grandkids things to do list. Even as she battled cancer, she was planning on heading back to work. Hundreds of people are walking around today thanks to her tireless work as a dosimetrist at Crozier, Penn and Inspira Vineland, figuring out treatment programs for cancer. Her Sirius was always tuned to The Highway, her favorite color was yellow and her tastes seldom strayed from spaghetti with marinara, chicken and pizza.
Through a friend she’d meet a handsome guy named Jim. The two would share a 40-year marriage blessed by daughters, Melissa (Christopher Jr.) Dill and Ashley (Raymond Jr) Palmer; and two grandchildren, Sadie and Christopher III.
Come celebrate 65 great years Sunday 2-4 p.m. and Monday 9-10 a.m. at Daley Life Celebration Studio where there will be a 4 p.m. Sunday Storytime service. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday 10:30 a.m. at St. Clare of Assisi Parish, St. Joseph Church, Swedesboro. Interment All Saints Cemetery, Newfield.

8 Comments

  1. Karen Renzulli says:

    Joanne was THE kindest, friendliest, and most generous person I know. She loved her family so much, and couldn’t wait for her daily phone calls with them. I am so honored to have worked with Joanne, and to be able to call her my friend. Our daily lunch outings were full of giggles and smiles. Joanne will forever sparkle!

    My Deepest Sympathies,
    Karen Renzulli

  2. Linda Collaretti says:

    Melissa I am so sorry to hear of the loss. of your mom. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. 🙏🙏❤️

  3. Patty Uhland says:

    It was my pleasure to work with Joanne. She loved her family and was so proud of her girls. Despite what was going on in her own life, she always had a smile and a kind, soft-spoken word. I will treasure the beautiful, handmade Christmas ornament she gave me. Sending continued prayers for her family and all those who loved her.
    With sincerest sympathy,
    Patty Uhland

  4. Jackie Barnett says:

    We first crossed paths in the radiology hallways at Crozer. I’m very grateful that I had the opportunity to know you better as members of the Library Crafting Crew. I feel privileged to have known you as a colleague and a cherished friend. Jackie Barnett (the other JB)

  5. Jodie Ross says:

    Joanne was on e of my crafters at the Margaret Dombrosky Swedesboro Library. She would always ask for a sample craft so she can get a better understanding of what the craft would look like. Going to miss her a lot.

  6. Joy Jakuboski says:

    So many good times and such a good friend. I remember when I walked into Rosina’s Dance Studio many years ago for the first time with my daughter, Joanne greeted me and I knew she was the kind of person I needed to be around. We were new to the area and she was such a warm soul. I have so many wonderful memories from Halloween parties with the kids to the never-ending recitals! She was the best! She will be so missed. Heaven truly gained a beautiful angel. She will be forever watching over you Melissa and Ashley! My condolences Jim and family.

  7. Stephanie Henry says:

    Melissa and family, I was very sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Your family is in my thought and prayers.

    Stephanie Henry (Dan Quinones mom )

  8. Mary Page (RJ's Mom) says:

    Melissa, I am so sorry to read about your Mom. I was on Daleys website looking for someone else’s information and I came across this. I will pray for strength and comfort for your family.

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