Joan B Austin

Joan was born on November 30, 1931 in Bridgeport, CT, to loving parents, Dorothy and Arthur Bickel. She and her dear sister Marilyn were their pride and joy, growing up close and remaining so in to their elder years. Joan Dorothy Bickel met the love of her life, John Austin while he was attending Yale Engineering School in New Haven, CT. They were married October 14, 1950 at Christ Episcopal Church in West Haven, CT. From that day on, they enjoyed a truly blessed life for 65 years. Together they raised four children, were devoted and active members of their communities and church in each and every beautiful town they lived. Joan called home to Valley Forge, PA, Berwyn, PA, Paoli, PA, North East, MD, and lovely Jupiter, FL, residing at Mangrove Bay these past 10 years. Joan and her husband John were devoted members of The Good Samaritan Episcopal Church of Paoli, PA, St. Mary Anne’s Episcopal Church of North East, MD, and most recently St. Mark’s Church in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Together they shared and were inspired daily by their love of god, serving on committees and helping those in need. Joan continued her spiritual journey at Mangrove Bay by helping to form a bible study group that enriched the lives of many. Many will remember Joan as a talented and prolific artist. She was passionate about art history and genealogy, taking classes when she could at the Crutzburg Center in Rosemont, PA and later studying with many teachers and artist friends from 1970-2000. She became a member of The Historical Society of Early American Decoration (HSEAD) serving as Education Chairwoman of the woman’s Penn Chapter HSEAD in Rosemont. She loved painting, maritime art, tray painting, reverse painting on glass, clock dials and portraiture. She always delighted in her gold leaf and freehand bronze work. Joan had her own art studio for years always gathering joyfully with friends and fellow artists. These talented and lovely people became her dearest friends for life. Later in Jupiter, Joan became an active member of its PEO chapter, enjoying the meaningful philanthropy and interesting programs, along with her new friends and sisters here. Joan loved to travel, loved her friends and her beloved family. For forty fun filled years, Joan and John enjoyed their sweet cottage on Hances Point, full of family gatherings, sailing, relaxing, playing and throwing annual delicious crab feasts on the Chesapeake. Joan had a big heart and a generous spirit. Her greatest joy each and every day came from the love and endless pride she had for her family; her children and their spouses, her sister, nieces, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Through all of us, we shall carry on her joie de vivre! (We will miss you...though our hearts are comforted knowing you are holding Dad’s hand once again.) Joan is survived by her loving family… Her sister Marilyn Mix and her two daughters, Lisa Johnstone and Mandy Bitteto. Dear brother-in-law Larry Austin and family. Her children, Nancy and Chris MacCarthy, Tom and Michelle Austin, Patricia Austin, Katherine and Mike Wooley. Her grandchildren, Lauren, Kelly, Evan, Caitlin, Ryan, Shawn, Justin, Amy, Brian, Jeffrey, Matthew, and Rob. Her great-grandchildren, Adele, Lakey, Roxy, Rowan, Henry, Finn, Grayson, Inara, Orion, Ruby, Talyn, Ryker, Osyn, Robbie, Patty, and Everly. Our entire family is truly grateful for the caring staff, loving caregivers and dear friends Joan shared and who uplifted her every day at Mangrove Bay, especially Nickie Miller, ....you made her “extra innings” good ones! A memorial service and celebration of Joan’s life will be announced after the Thanksgiving holiday. In lieu of flowers, please give to the charity of your choice (or a charity most meaningful to you).

Joan B Austin

November 30, 1931 - November 19, 2022