Obituary published on Legacy.com by Evans Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services - Forest Hill on Dec. 31, 2025.
Joan Arlene Anis, a shining example of love and faith, completed her earthly journey on December 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and the serenity of her Bel Air, Maryland home. Born in
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on August 31, 1932, Joan's life was a testament to the grace and beauty that can be cultivated through a lifetime of service, creativity, and devotion.
Joan's formative years in Lancaster County were marked by an arduous and humble lifestyle with her mother Ethel and graduation from Lancaster County High School in 1950. This foundation of hard work and self accountability would lead her to a fulfilling career with Harford County Government. With 21 years of dedicated service, she retired as a beloved and highly respected Supervisor of Revenue Collections, leaving a legacy of professionalism and compassion. Her creative spirit flourished beyond her official duties, as she honed her artistic talents in floral arrangement, bringing joy and beauty to many as a designer and craftsperson-at-large at Michaels in Bel Air.A devout Christian, Joan's faith illuminated her path and inspired those around her. She lived her beliefs every day, embodying the scripture, "Let all that you do be done in love" (1 Corinthians 16:14). Her life was a living testament to Christ Jesus, preached through acts of kindness in the unwavering strength of The Holy Spirit.
Joan's love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew her. She was an avid adventurer, whether traveling internationally with her loved ones or at home cultivating flower beds. The beach was her haven, a place where she found peace and connection with God's creation, and she was a familiar sight on local trails, embracing the beauty of each season with every step.
Her family was the heart of Joan's world. Though preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Edward Anis, her daughter, Laurie Jo Ring, grandson Nathan Stephen Barber and Scott Huffman beloved husband to Wendy, her legacy lives on through her children, Michael Edward Anis (Paula) and Wendy Lynne Huffman. Her granddaughter Mikal Lynne Mox (John), her granddaughter Jourdan Lindsey Huffman, grandson Matthew Edward Annis (Kelly); great-grandson Asher Edward Annis, great granddaughter Autumn Rose Annis and great granddaughter Malia Lynne Mox. Each of them carries a spark of Joan's loving and creative spirit, a testament to her enduring influence. We also wish to extend loving mention and regards to Gail Truesdale, Rome Novak, Skylar Burnett and Shawna Tucker who provided care of mother Joan over the final years of her life. Joan was the epitome of a loving, faith-filled, and creative soul. Her ability to see the beauty in the world and in others was unmatched, and her legacy is one of unwavering love and inspiration. As Helen Keller once said, "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Joan's love has indeed become a part of us all, a cherished and everlasting presence.
In celebrating Joan Arlene Anis's remarkable life, we honor a woman who walked in faith, led with love, and created a tapestry of beauty that will continue to warm the hearts of those she touched for generations to come. Her journey was a reflection of our Creator's love, a life well-lived and a soul now resting in eternal joy.
Family and friends will honor and celebrate Joan's life at Evans Life Celebration Home-3 Newport Drive (Rts 23 and 24) Forest Hill on Saturday, January 17 from 10-10:30 AM at which time a memorial service will begin. Inurnment Bel Air Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Joan to
Dementia Society. www.dementiasociety.org To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan, please visit our floral store.