Joan A. McGeehan

Joan (Atwell) McGeehan, 92, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, of West Chester, passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Barclay Friends, West Chester.
Born in West Chester, Joan was the daughter of the late L. Edward and Lena (Fell) Atwell. She was the wife of the late James H. McGeehan. Jim and his "Joanie Girl" enjoyed 61 years of marriage before his passing in 2014.
Joan was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church, Downingtown. She loved vacationing, especially sharing the beach in Ocean City, NJ with her children and grandchildren. She was a member of the "group of six", a very close-knit circle of women whose friendship spanned more than 70 years. Her best friend since the 4th grade, Lenore, was right by her side through the very last days. Their deep and unwavering friendship is an inspiration to all who know them.
Joan was a gifted and caring special education teacher for more than four decades for the IU-13 and Downingtown School District. She was passionate about helping students with special needs and was a positive force in the lives of countless children and families throughout her professional life and beyond. The classroom was her happy place.
Joan is survived by her children: Patricia M. Hayes (Daniel) of Glen Mills, PA, Mary M. Sheehy (Vincent) of Arlington, VA, and Edward A. McGeehan (Nancy) of Landisville; grandchildren: Stephan, Matthew, Danni, Rory, Casey, Braden, Gabrielle, Michael, Shawn, Kathleen, Vincent, Kevin, Carney, Kelsey, and Meagan; 13 great-grandchildren; sister: Edith McGuirk; and daughter-in-law: Aime McGeehan.
In addition to her husband and parents, Joan was preceded in death by her sons: James E. McGeehan and John H. McGeehan; and brother-in-law: Harry McGuirk.
Services will be conducted privately at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions in Joan's name may be made to the local VFW of your choice or the Special Olympics.