Joan Wilcox

1930 - 2026

Joan Catherine Wilcox, 95, of Longview, WA, passed away peacefully at home on January 31, 2026. She was born on December 13, 1930 in Portland, OR, to the late Catherine and Bill Ferrin. Mr. Ferrin preceded her in death in 1932 and in 1938 Charles Wegman became her stepfather. She lived a life marked by love, adventure, and a generous heart that touched everyone she knew.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Steve Wilcox Jr.; her cherished sister and brother-in-law Dede and Herb Williams; and her dear daughter-in-law, Ellen Wilcox.

On April 14, 1951, she married Steve S. Wilcox Jr. The couple then relocated to Longview, WA where they founded Wilcox & Flegel Oil Co. in 1952. She is survived by her loving son Steve C. Wilcox of Longview, WA; her caring daughter and son-in-law Sue and Dennis Boaglio of Longview, WA; along with her 5 grandchildren and her 6 great-grandchildren, all of whom were the lights of her life and brought her immeasurable joy.

As a passionate and dedicated member of the Longview community, she was an active member of Longview Community Church, Longview Stitchers, Lake Guild, and served on the board for the Toutle Youth and Family Link. She was a former member of the Longview Junior Service League, Longview Yacht Club, and Longview Country Club, while also serving the youth of her community as a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader. She and her family also supported local education by providing scholarships to students in the LCC Nursing Program.

The ocean was Joan's happy place. She cherished watching the waves crash from the shore, digging for razor clams hidden beneath the sand, and the thrill of the hunt for fish around the world. Once she retired from fishing, she was sure to be at the dock to greet the family fishermen and hear about the catch of the day. As an avid traveler, she visited some of the most remote corners of the world in search of penguins and polar bears. Joan believed in living life to the fullest and rarely sat still, always eager for the next adventure, laugh, or memory.

Whenever Joan returned home from one of her amazing adventures, she enjoyed filling the house with family for the holidays. Affectionately known as "GG", "Grandma", "Great White" and "Aunty Jo," Joan had a gift for bringing people together with her natural ability to make people feel welcome and loved.

Joan Catherine Wilcox leaves behind a legacy of love, family, adventure, and unforgettable moments. She will be deeply missed and remembered by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Longview Community Church; 2323 Washington Way Longview, WA. Memorial donations may be sent to the following: Youth & Family LINK 907 Douglas Longview, WA 98632 or FISH of Cowlitz County PO Box 135 Longview, WA 98632.