Joan C. Winterbottom, 91, passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side on Saturday, September 21, 2024, in Wilmington, DE.
Joan is survived by her husband of 69 years, Thomas L. Winterbottom, as well as her daughters, Linda and Lisa (Bill), and her son, Tom. Additionally, she is survived by her brother, George Coolbaugh Jr. (Judy), sister, Jeanne Alshouse, and her cherished grandchildren, Ryan, Matthew, Tyler (Arianne), Kelsey, and great-grandson, Colton. She is predeceased by her parents, George and Janet (Schultz) Coolbaugh and her brother, Jesse Dixon (Dick) Coolbaugh.
Joan had a love of learning which she would later turn into a fulfilling career. She attended Media High School and graduated from West Chester Normal School (now University) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.
Joan was a dedicated and popular teacher and assistant principal in both Pennsylvania and Louisiana, ending her career teaching her favorite subject of Mathematics to eighth graders. She raised her family in Claymont, DE until moving to New Orleans, Louisiana in 1981.
She continued her career as both a teacher and an assistant principal until her retirement in 1998. Upon retirement, she moved back to Delaware to be near her children and grandchildren.
Joan enjoyed gardening, knitting, playing the piano, her daily newspapers wherever she lived, following the Phillies and the Eagles to whom she was a loyal fan, and most of all, reading. She had a bright, extroverted personality. Her wit was remarkable and continued to make us laugh until the end.
A graveside service to celebrate Joan’s life will be held at 12:00pm at Lawncroft Cemetery in Linwood, PA on Friday, October 4, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to Brandywine Valley SPCA.
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