She was born July 18, 1936 in Albany, New York, daughter of the late Marian and Francis Henry.
She graduated from Brockport State in 1958 and began teaching physical education for the Indian River school system in Philadelphia, NY. Upon moving back to the Albany area, she taught for two years at Ravena Coeymans and left teaching to start her family. After raising two daughters, she began her career in service to the state of New York as district office manager for State Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley, and concluded her career as an advocate for people with disabilities at NYSDDSO.
A devoted mother and grandmother who nurtured her daughters’ interests in music, and theater and attended all of her grandsons’ baseball, football, and basketball games, Joan was also an avid reader, swimmer, crossword-puzzler, card-player, and dog lover. She gave her all to so many community organizations, including the Town of Stafford Recreation, the New York State Veterans Home, the LeRoy PTSO, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Republican Women’s Club.
She will be sadly missed by her husband of 59 years, Berney V. Staats; daughters Marian Staats (Thomas Bowen) and Cindy (Steven) Dumbleton; grandsons Steven and Joshua Dumbleton; and special friend and caretaker Sophie Penepent.
Joan’s family would like to extend their appreciation to Home Care and Hospice and Johnny’s Angels for the wonderful care of their wife and mother.
Visitation and services will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the New York State Veterans Home in Batavia, NY.
Your memories and condolences may be shared with Joan’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com.
