Joan Elizabeth Winters

Joan Elizabeth Winters, affectionately known to all who loved her as “Toots” or “Aunt Toots,” passed away on August 10, 2025, at the age of 90. She was born in McKeesport, PA, on February 10, 1935, and is the daughter of the late Thomas and Josephine Ivanac Winters.

A strong, independent woman, Joan lived life entirely on her own terms and left an unforgettable impression on everyone she met.

Over the years, Joan’s work life was as diverse as her interests. From serving as a city clerk, to owning her own store, to radio station manager, to managing a borough—and many roles in between—she approached every position with professionalism, confidence, skill, and determination.

Although she never married or had children of her own, Joan’s love for others overflowed. She was like a mother to many, a grandmother to even more, and an aunt to all. Her home and heart were always open, and her encouragement and support were constants in the lives of those who knew her.

Toots is survived by her nephews, Jeffrey (Michelle) Winters of Finleyville, PA; and Greg Winters of Elizabeth Township, PA; nieces, Valerie (Kerry) Jones of Cochranville, PA; and Judy (the late David) Hall of Greenock, PA; seven great nieces and nephews; and eight great-great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Toots is preceded in death by her brother, Norbert Ralph Winters; and nephews, Jerry Winters; and Jamie Winters.

Toots had a zest for life and an eagerness to stay connected to the world around her. She embraced technology, proudly keeping up with the latest gadgets—her iPhone, iPad, iMac, and Apple Watch—and she knew how to use them all. She cherished her monthly lunches with the “Golden Girls,” her beloved group of friends, often saying, “I have the best friends in the world.”

Known for her impeccable style, Toots was classy in every sense of the word. She carried herself with grace and always looked her best, no matter the occasion.

Above all, Joan was a woman of faith who loved Jesus with all her heart. Her trust in Him shaped her life and gave her strength, joy, and hope.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, August 25, 2025, beginning at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) at Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church, 2701 Kelly Street, White Oak, PA 15131. Arrangements are being cared for by Strifflers of White Oak Cremation and Mortuary Services, Inc., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, 412-678-6177).

A celebration of Joan’s life will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Freedom Life Center, 268 Old Clairton Road, Pleasant Hills, PA 15236. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Port Vue, PA.

To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfuneralhomes.com