Joan Dorothy Lamphear

In Loving Memory of

Joan Dorothy Lamphear

1936 – 2026

Joan Dorothy Lamphear, born Joan Dorothy Guss on September 21, 1936, passed away peacefully, on January 30, 2026, having lived a full and vibrant 89 years.

Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Joan was the second of eight children and the firstborn daughter of Robert J. Guss and Dorothy M. Guss, who preceded her in death. She grew up with an older brother and six younger sisters, in a lively and loving household that shaped her lifelong devotion to family.

Joan attended St. Brendan's Elementary School and later Visitation High School, where she formed many lifelong friendships. Soon after, she moved to California to marry her first husband, James Taksas, who was serving in the United States Navy. Following his discharge, they returned to Chicago to settle down and raise their family.

Her three sons-James, Richard, and Steven-became the center of her world and the focus of her life's dedication. As a single mother raising three boys, she would often say with pride, "My Three Sons" referencing the popular television show of the time, a reflection of her strength, humor, and determination. She worked multiple jobs to provide for her family. Her primary career was at First Federal Savings & Loan in downtown Chicago, where she served as a manager and worked on early punch-card computer systems. Commuting by bus and "EL" train each day, her commitment never wavered. She also worked part-time as a waitress at Beverly Country Club, a job she obtained through her dear friend Lori Drish.

In 1970, Joan met her second husband, John ("Jack") Lamphear. Shortly thereafter, they relocated to St. Petersburg, Florida, where they opened a construction company. For the next twenty-five years, Joan worked in office and accounting management for several construction companies. She also handled accounting and taxes for two of her sons who owned automotive repair shops in Chicago and Florida. Joan was especially proud of her affiliation with her chapter of "Women in Construction" where she found professional fulfillment and friendship.

In the mid-1980s, Joan met William ("Bill") Ende, who became her life partner and devoted companion for 35 years. Together, they shared countless worldwide travel adventures and built a life rich with wonderful experiences and memories.

In 2019, Joan moved to Freedom Square, where she quickly formed new friendships and embraced community life. During the last six years of her life, she enjoyed participating in many activities. She loved dancing with friends, casinos, reading, playing Mahjong, poker, blackjack, bingo, and trivia, attending theaters and plays, as well as going to different restaurants and dining out with the group at Freedom Square. Fridays were her favorite-meeting friends at the Swan and often continuing the evening with dancing or cards. Joan truly lived life on her own terms, with joy, independence, and gratitude.

She leaves behind a beautiful legacy and is survived by her three loving sons and their families: James (Elizabeth) Taksas; Richard (Rhonda) Taksas; and Steven (Mary Ann) Taksas.

She was a proud grandmother to Megan Taksas; Daniel (Katherine) Taksas; Robert (Jessica) Taksas; Jeffrey (Julio Lama) Taksas & Nicole (Eric) LaPorte; Breann (Timothy) Taksas; Brittany Taksas and Mia Taksas.

Her legacy continues through her cherished great-grandchildren: Landon & Hudson LaPorte; Greyson & Isabella Taksas; Elodie, Olivia and Benjamin Taksas; Madisyn Taksas, Lucas Taksas and soon a baby boy Taksas, due in June of 2026.

Joan lived with strength, resilience, humor, and grace. She knew exactly how she wanted her life to unfold, and she fulfilled her dreams and wishes in every way. Her love, determination, and vibrant spirit leave an indelible mark on all who knew her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on April 10th at 11:30 a.m. at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 10895 Hamlin Blvd., Largo, Florida 33774. The placing of the urn will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 5233 118th Ave. N., Clearwater, Florida 33760.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered