Joan M. Brown

Mrs. Joan M. (Ross) Brown, 87, of Blandon, PA, passed away peacefully at home, with love and family by her side, on Monday, June 23, 2025.

Born on December 31, 1937, in Millville, New Jersey, Joan was the daughter of the late Frank J. and Anna E. (McKee) Ross. She was a proud south Jersey girl who cherished childhood summers at Union Lake and the Jersey shores. A 1956 graduate of Millville High School, Joan often shared stories filled with fond memories of her youth.

At the age of 16, Joan began working as a bank teller, launching a remarkable 46-year career in banking. Throughout the years, her dedication and leadership led her to many achievements, including serving as Assistant Vice President (AVP) of commercial operations and commercial documentation at First National Bank of Allentown, PA. After retiring, Joan continued to inspire others as a devoted Weight Watchers leader- a role she truly enjoyed- while remaining active with various work projects, friends, family, and church activities.

Joan shared 35 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Leon F. Brown, Sr., who passed away on October 12, 2002. Together, they built a quaint gentleman's thoroughbred farm in the scenic countryside of Berks County, PA, where they continued their love story.

Joan embraced life with joy and purpose. She treasured music, movies, trips to the beach, outings to the casino, playing bingo, and, most of all, spending meaningful time with her husband, family, and friends. Her strong faith, fun-loving spirit, radiant smile, and joyful laughter left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her-and will live on through her four children: Kevin C. Shropshire of Bethlehem, PA; Ron P. Vail and his wife, Denise M. Vail, of Santa Clarita, CA; Craig E. Vail of Metairie, LA; and her daughter, Leone G. Brown of Blandon, PA. She is also lovingly remembered by her five grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her brothers, George Smith and Carl Smith, and her sister, Elizabeth (Smith) Montgomery.

A memorial celebration honoring Joan's beautiful life, so fully and lovingly lived, will be held at a later date with family and close friends.

Walbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Fleetwood, is honored to be caring for Joan and her family. Messages of comfort and sympathy can be offered at www.WalbertFuneralHome.com