Joan L. Rager

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joan L. Rager of Frederica, DE, who left us peacefully on July 21, 2024. Joan was born on September 12, 1943 in Pennsylvania to the late Henry and Mabel Randall. She graduated from high school in Boswell, Pennsylvania and soon moved to Frederica, DE, as a military spouse to her beloved husband Telford “Telly” Rager.

Joan was a dedicated postal employee who advanced to become the postmaster at the Frederica Post Office. She was a talented seamstress, known for crafting beautiful blankets and other items for her cherished friends and family. Joan also shared her sewing expertise at Husqvarna Viking Sewing Gallery for several years.

Joan lived a life of dedicated service as a founding member and President of the Spring Creek Lions Club and past President and member of the Frederica Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a member of the Frederica Senior Center, where she spent time with beloved family and friends. An active member of the First State Antique Tractor Club, Joan enjoyed traveling with her husband to show tractors at various events. A devoted animal lover, Joan was known to tame a wild squirrel or two, and had a special bond with her current dog, Rusty.

Joan was preceded in death by her son, Michael “Mike” Rager, great-grandson Rowan Durkee, sister Charlotte Randall and Mildred “Peggy” Griffeth. 

Joan is survived by her husband, Telford; her brother Henry "Sonny" Randall; her sisters Irma Hoar and Sissy Chippeaux; her two children, Pete Rager (Dianne Rager) and Mandy Slody (Bruce Slody); and was a cherished grandmother to five grandchildren: Eric Rager, Megan Durkee (Eric Durkee), Danielle Slody, Josh Rager, and James Slody (Kari Legates-Slody). She is also survived by her great-grandchild, Haven Durkee.

Joan's memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends. 

The family will receive visitors at Rogers Hovatter Funeral Home, 301 Lakeview Ave., Milford, from 11AM to 1PM on Monday 7/29, with a funeral service at 1PM. Interment is Barratts Chapel Cemetery.