Joan E. Leonard

January 2, 1937 - March 8, 2022

On the morning of March 8, 2022 Joan passed away peacefully at Ocean Medical Center Hospice in Brick Township, NJ as a result of acute sepsis. She was 85 years old. Born in New York City on January 2, 1937 to Raymond and Ester Prek, Joan, an only child was a "miracle baby", born to a mother who survived scarlet fever. Her beloved maternal grandmother cared for her early in life when her mother was ill. Joan was raised in Oceanport, New Jersey, where she attended Monmouth College, and became a registered nurse. In later years, she continued her education and received her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Fairleigh Dickenson University. Joan homesteaded in Kenai, Alaska for four years with her first husband and young daughter, Heather. She and Heather returned to New Jersey, where Joan's second daughter Holly was born. Joan became a public health nurse, who later transitioned to hospice;a profession that gave her great pride. In 1970, she married Webb Leonard, and became the stepmother to his four children. Joan was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, dog and constant companion, "Abi." Joan is survived by her daughters, Heather Jo Lund and Holly Michelle Leonard Ingersoll; step children, Randi Leonard Holmes, D. Mark Leonard, Ellen Gilbert Leonard, Leigh Laurens Stallings; and foster son, William H. Rosch, III. Her fourteen grandchildren are located far and wide. She is also survived by her dear daughter-in law, Ginger Leonard, and son-in law, Doug Holmes; extended family, Morena, Marta and Adela Flores. Deepest gratitude to Barb, Joan's closest friend, who provided comfort during her final days, and Sharita who became an important family member to Joan. An informal gathering will be held on Tuesday, March 15, 10:00 AM to Noon at Seabrook Village, Town Square Atrium. The address is 3300 Essex Road, Tinton Falls, NJ. Donations can be made in memory of Joan Leonard: Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice https://www.karenannquinlanhospice.org/donate-support/donate/ Arbor Foundation https://shop.arborday.org/campaign/reforestation-donation/give?utm_source=arborday.org&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=03667&utm_content=header Delaware Water Gap http://www.friendsofdewanps.org/donate-.html Online condolences can be given at www.oceansidememorial.com.