Joan L. "Joni" DeJohn

NEWARK - Joan L "Joni" DeJohn, 76, of Newark, N.Y., passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026 following a long and arduous battle with cancer and many related health issues.

Born on March 1, 1949, to Myron Contario, Sr. and Jane Wyatt, and raised by her aunt and uncle, Catherine "Kitty" and Joseph Calletto.

Joni worked at Wayne Drugs in the Newark Plaza until it's closing. Her warmth and genuine care left a lasting impact on the community, earning her a vast circle of lifelong friends. Known as a superb cook, Joni found her greatest joy in hosting and feeding people; no one ever left her table hungry. Joni was a compassionate person, always taking care of others. She was a talented seamstress that many people in the community turned to from alterations to custom made curtains and reupholstering.

Joni's legacy of love continues through her devoted husband, Tom; her brother, Joseph Michael (Darleen) Contario; her sons, Jason (Mary Anne) DeJohn and Joshua (Holly) DeJohn; and her five cherished grandchildren, Katherine, Jackson, Ryan, Hayden, Hadley, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. The family wishes to express special gratitude to Sue Steel and Debbie Christler for their unwavering friendship and care.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Donna Stevens, Myron "Bucky" Contario, Jr., Verna Horton, Betty Jane Vardabash.

Calling hours will be held at Schulz-Pusateri Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 24 between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Graveside services to be held in the spring in the Newark Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Laurel House Comfort Care Home where Joni had a brief, but peaceful stay.

Arrangements by Schulz-Pusateri Funeral Home.