Joan Beckwith's Obituary
Joan Beckwith, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2024, at the age of 93, in Strongsville, Ohio. Born on November 27, 1930, in Cleveland, Ohio, to William and Albena Wittasek, Joan's life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her work, and her community.
A proud alumna of West Tech High School, Joan graduated with the class of January 1949 and soon after embarked on a path that would lead her to a fulfilling career and a beautiful family. In 1952, Joan married the love of her life, Arthur Beckwith, and together they built a foundation of love and support that lasted 39 years, until Arthur's passing in 1992.
Joan's professional life was characterized by her role at Ceilcote/BASF, where she worked in Purchasing from 1973 until her retirement in 1991. Her diligence and commitment to excellence were evident in everything she did.
Beyond her career, Joan was deeply involved in her community, especially within the Strongsville United Church of Christ. She was a member for over 50 years and expressed her creativity and caring nature through knitting. She lovingly crafted hats and scarves for the church's Mitten Tree, warming the hearts and heads of many.
Joan could often be found with a book in hand, lost in the pages of a gripping novel or an intriguing biography. She had a maternal instinct that extended beyond her own family, earning her the affectionate title of "everyone's mom." This nurturing spirit shone brightly as she guided and supported her children and grandchildren through life's many adventures.
In her earlier years, Joan's commitment to nurturing young minds was evident through her active involvement in youth organizations such as Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Brownies. She also shared her skills in 4H, teaching sewing and dog training, shaping the lives of countless young people in her community.
Joan is survived by her loving children, Richard (Jill) Beckwith and Kim Beckwith; her adoring grandchildren, Amanda Beckwith and Sean (Julie) Beckwith; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Jacob, Kayla, Lewis, Mason, and Nathaniel. Each of them carries a piece of Joan's legacy in their hearts.
In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her children Daniel Beckwith, Elizabeth Russell, and Charlotte Kennedy; and brother William Wittasek.
VISITATION will be held on THURSDAY, April 11th from 4pm – 7pm at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME, 15822 Pearl Road, Strongsville. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held on FRIDAY, April 12th, at 11am, also at Jardines.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be to the Strongsville United Church of Christ.
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