Joan L. Bireley, 82, of Lancaster, PA resigned her Soul away into our Savior's Arms on Thursday, June 12, 2014 at Manor Care. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of John R. and Cecelia (Judith) Wimer.

Joan was a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy. She retired as an Accounts Receivable Manager with Charles Chips. She was a 50 year member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church where she was a lay minister, taught CCD and assisted with any other tasked asked of her. She was also a member of the Legion of Mary. Joan enjoyed making and painting ceramics, knitting and helping other people. She was very giving, loving.

Surviving are 3 children: Michael L. Bireley, Scott D. Bireley, husband of Julie (Wissler), and Ann M. (Bireley) Zetti, wife of Ralph Zetti; 4 grandchildren: Zachary Bireley, husband of Jesse, Amber, wife of Joe Czernowkski, Kasey Bireley and Dominick Zetti; 23 nieces and nephews; many great nieces and great nephews. Joan was a "good sister" and was the youngest of 10.

A viewing will be from 6-8 PM on Monday, June 16, 2014 at the Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 AM on Tuesday, June 17, 2014 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 558 W. Walnut St, Lancaster, PA 17603, with Rev. Michael Messer as Celebrant. Interment will be private for the family at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joan's memory to the American Parkinson Disease Association, Greater Delaware Valley Chapter, c/o APDA I&R Center Crozer Chester Medical Center, Presidents Drive, Upland, PA 19013.

Memorare: Remember O most gracious Virgin Mary that never was it known that anyone who fled to Thy protection, implored Thy help, and sought Thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto Thee, O Virgin of virgins, My Mother! to Thee I come; before Thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful, Oh Mother of the Word incarnate! Despise not my petitions, but, in Thy mercy, hear and answer me. AMEN