Joan Singer Schiele passed away peacefully surrounded by her children on Monday, June 23, 2025, at her home in St. Louis. She was preceded in death by her husband James Schiele.
Joan was a devoted wife, sister, mother, a loyal friend, an adoring grandmother, great-grandmother and a lifelong learner and teacher. Joan left a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on September 5, 1934, to Carolyn and James Singer, Joan grew up the oldest of three children. Her brother Daniel Singer preceded her in death in 2019. She is survived by her sister Barbara (Bo) Pratter.
After graduating from the John Burroughs School in 1952, she went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts degree from Vassar College in 1956 and her Master of Arts in Teaching from Webster University in 1979.
Devoting her career to early childhood education, Joan taught 4 and 5-year-olds at the Ethical Society Nursery School. Her love for nurturing young minds and her gentle, engaging presence made her a beloved teacher of generations of children and their families. Later in her career, she continued to cultivate her passion for teaching as she volunteered with Reading Is Fundamental and Springboard To Learning. Joan was active on local campaigns, standing by her beliefs and setting an example to all. She certainly lived by her motto: “Learn what you can do ... then do something.”
Joan’s warm personality and approachable nature made her easy to talk to and cherished by all who knew her. Her life was enriched by the many friends she made and kept throughout her life. From an early age, Joan found joy in reading and was an avid reader her entire life, staying an active member of a local book group for many years. Joan had a deep appreciation for the arts, especially live theater. She and Jim loved their annual trips to Stratford, Canada, where they delighted in watching Shakespeare plays as well as other performances. Joan’s passion for theater, both abroad and at home, brought her great happiness and enriched her life.
Married for over 68 years, Joan and Jim built a strong, loving family. Joan took great pride in her children, always celebrating their accomplishments and supporting their paths. She is survived by her four children Dan Schiele, Carolyn Schiele Murray (Mike Murray), Barb Schiele (Bob Silagi), and Jane Schiele Sinclare (Stacey Sinclare).
Joan certainly loved her children, and as “Granny Joan,” she absolutely adored her grandchildren Laura Murray Davis (Sean) and Patrick Murray (Jenna), Jojo and Kate Silagi, Ash and Taylor Sinclare, and her great-grandchildren Cameron and Molly Davis, Harrison and Murphy Murray.
The funeral will be private, remembering Joan in the presence of close family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ethical Society Nursery School, the Alzheimer’s Association, Springboard To Learning or a charity of your choice.
Read More
