Joanne Stephens

Joanne Stephens, 86, of Pleasant Mount, passed away peacefully on Friday April 24, 2026. She was married to her beloved husband of 67 years, John Stephens, who died December 31, 2017. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised a loving family.

Born in Herrick Center, daughter of the late Elmer and Louise Chura Maslar, she was a member of Saint John’s Byzantine Church, Forest City.  Joanne lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, and quiet strength. She was known for her warm heart, her unwavering dedication to those she loved, and her ability to make others feel welcome and cared for.  Joanne worked at the Endicott-Johnson Shoe Factory for 33 years until her retirement. After retiring, she found great joy in caring for her grandchildren, camping, gardening, and spending time with her family. She could often be found tending to her garden or canning in the kitchen, creating both lasting memories and traditions.

Joanne will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Forest City Nursing Home and all of their staff for the kind and thoughtful care given to Joanne during her time there. They would also like to thank the hospice nurses and aides for their compassion and support.

She will be remembered always and loved forever.

Joanne is survived by her three children: daughters Jean Stephens, Pleasant Mount; and Joyce Stephens (Derek), Harrisburg; and son John Stephens (Georgia), Union Dale; her grandchildren: Amanda, Sarah, and Kayla (Tegan); her great-granddaughter: Charlotte; her sisters: Marian Borick and Patty Dolph; her sister-in-law: Emily Maslar; and several nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her brother: Elmer Maslar; her sisters: Marge Balunas, Louise Petrus, and Sylvia Hallstead; and her brothers-in-law: George Balunas, John Petrus, Peter Borick, Bob Dolph, and Richard Hallstead.

The funeral will be Thursday April 30th in the Jones & Brennan Funeral Home, 430 Main Street, Forest City, with services at 12 Noon by Rev. Roman Vasylynka.  Interment will follow at St. John’s Cemetery, Forest City.  Friends may call Wednesday from 4 to 7 pm.

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