Joan M. Lafferty

Joan M. Lafferty, 82 of Pottsville died Thursday, July 30th at home.

She was born October 16, 1942, in Pottsville, a daughter of the late Michael and Magaret Williams McShaw.

Prior to retiring to Joan worked for the former Rest Haven Nursing Home, Schuylkill Haven, and the former Pen & Pencil Factory, Deer Lake.

Joan was a member of St. Clair-Wade United Methodist Church, St. Clair; St. Clair Lions Club where she served as president; Mechanicsville Game and Fish; West End Hose Co., Pottsville and a life member of Walter Griffiths AMVETS Post 180 and its ladies auxiliary where she served as Sgt at Arms. Joan also volunteered her time towards the food pantry at Roundhouse.

Throughout her life, Joan was known for her deep love of family and firm commitment to those she cherished. She embraced each moment with a warmth and dedication that touched the hearts of many.

Joan was also an enthusiastic bingo player, she could often be found at various bingo games across Schuylkill County, skillfully managing multiple cards and bringing joy to the vibrant social scene. Her enthusiasm for the game was matched only by her eagerness to connect with friends and family, making every outing a cherished experience.

She was preceded in death by her husband Michael Lafferty in 2023; 4 brothers, John "Butch" McShaw, Bernard "Bopper" McShaw, Michael McShaw and Robert "Mitch" McShaw; a sister, Janice Benedict.

Surviving are her children, Joe Lukach, Tina Felty, Joan Marie Callaghan, William Lukach, and James Hartnett all of Pottsville. 3 stepdaughters, Kim Hannaford, GA; Jodie Lafferty and Lynne McGovern, both of Pottsville; 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren; a sister Marie Updegrave, Tremont; nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral at 11AM Monday August 11th at St. Clair-Wade United Methodist Church, St. Clair, with Rev. Jack L. Murray officiating. Family and friends are invited to a viewing 9AM until the time of services at the church. Interment will follow at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. The family request no flowers and to please send donations to James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, 1112 W. Market St., Pottsville, PA 17901 to help defray some funeral expenses 

Arrangements are under the care of James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville.