Joan S. McGhie, age 85, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at Seasons Hospice in Wilmington Hospital.
Joan graduated from Georgetown High School in 1953, earning her nursing degree from Beebe Hospital in 1957 and worked in the hospital’s operating room. She met James Sr. at a bowling alley in Rehoboth Beach. They married in 1962 and she decided to put her nursing career on hold to travel with her husband for his job. They later had two children and Joan was a stay at home mother until the kids finished high school. Joan later regained her degree as a registered nurse and worked in the offices of Dr. Thomas Neef until she retired in 2006 to care for her (late) husband, James Sr.
Joan was a longtime member and parishioner of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of Wilmington where she enjoyed Sunday services. She was also involved with the Sunday school activities, as well as a member of the grief group at church. Joan enjoyed gardening, sitting on the porch, needlepoint, and vacationing in Rehoboth Beach, DE with her family. But most of all, she enjoyed raising her two children, James Jr. and Margaret. Her children remember her as someone who was always ready to lend a listening ear and offer advice when needed.
Joan is preceded in death by her husband, James Sr. in 2016, as well as her parents, Charlie and Margaret Short. She is survived by her son, James Jr., daughter, Margaret, brother, Jack Short (Pat), one niece, three nephews and many cousins.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in memory of Joan to Best Buddies Delaware, 4023 Kennett Pike, Suite 415, Greenville, DE 19807. https://www.bestbuddies.org/delaware/donate
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