JOAN DANFORTH

DANFORTH--Joan. In Loving Memory of Joan Lewis Danforth. September 25, 1932 - June 12, 2023. Joan Danforth passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and caregivers on June 12, 2023. She was born on September 25, 1932, to Martha and Azro Lewis in San Francisco, CA. Joan's remarkable life was characterized by her dedication to education, philanthropy, and community service. Joan attended Mills College and graduated from Stanford University in 1953, earning a BA in Sociology. She embarked on a career as a Portfolio Manager at Dean Witter & Company and later worked as an investment officer at Citibank. Throughout her life, Joan generously devoted her time and expertise to various volunteer organizations. She served as an Honorary Trustee of Oberlin College, Trustee of the San Francisco Performances, and Mills College Board of Trustees. Additionally, she held significant roles such as Board President of Big Sisters, Inc., Board Member of the Asian Art Museum Foundation, and Board Member of Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City. Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Azro and Martha Lewis, her husband Robert Danforth (1987), and two step-daughters, Patricia (2001) and Sally (2007). She is survived by her two step-daughters Jill and Betsy (Michael) as well as her step-son William (Elsee), her step-grandson Cody (Kris) and step-great-granddaughter, Sofia (1). Joan's wide circle of friends in San Francisco and New York City will forever hold her memory in their hearts. Joan loved to hike, golf, ski and play tennis. She was a world traveler who enjoyed learning about international cultures. The family extends a special thank you to Joan's incredible caregivers: Maricel, Yolanda, Winnie and Ligaya. Their unwavering love and support over the past decade enriched Joan's life immeasurably. Known for her outstanding commitment to the arts, social justice, cultural knowledge, and higher education, Joan was also an incredible step-mother, grandmother, and advocate for women's empowerment. Her legacy of generosity lives on through the numerous organizations she supported. A celebration of Joan Lewis Danforth's life was held at the San Francisco Towers on June 14. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, The San Francisco Food Bank, the Fort Ellis Volunteer Fire/Rescue Department in Bozeman, Montana (where her step-grandson serves as a volunteer), or to a charity of your choice. Joan will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her profound impact on the lives she touched. May her soul rest in eternal peace.