Joanna Mae Brown, 77, of Manheim passed away at home on Friday, March 8, 2013. Born in Lebanon, she was the daughter of the late Pauline Ellinger. She was the loving wife of Barry L. Brown and they celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary in October of last year. For forty two years, Joanna operated a State certified daycare center at her home in Manheim. Over the years, she lovingly and faithfully cared for hundreds of children in the Manheim area. She graduated from Manheim Central High School in 1953. Joanna was an active member at Grace Church of Lititz where she served as a Deacon, leader of Senior Adult Ministry and she was involved in several Bible study groups. Her interests included crocheting, quilting, sewing and counted cross stitching. Joanna was known for her detail in counted cross stitch where she created a special tapestry that is displayed in Old Main at Franklin & Marshall College. She enjoyed fishing with her husband and traveling to the beach with her family. An avid sports fan, Joanna supported Manheim Central athletics and was very faithful in attending her sons sporting events. She loved to spend time with her family; especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Surviving in addition to her husband are four sons, Galeon L. husband of Jan Brown of Manheim, Brian L. husband of Maryann Brown of Millersville, Kevin L. husband of Loni Brown of Boca Raton, Florida and Stuart L. husband of Dawn Brown of Manheim, eleven grandchildren, five great grandchildren and a brother, Roy husband of Virginia Hummer of New Holland.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service at Grace Church of Lititz, 501 West Lincoln Avenue, Lititz on Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 11:00 AM with Pastor William C. Willard officiating. Interment will be private. There will be a public viewing at the church on Wednesday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Please omit flowers. Those desiring may send contributions in Joanna’s memory to Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125.