Joan C. Kelly, 88

April 01, 2024

Joan C. Kelly, 88, of Lancaster, formerly of Millersville, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 1, 2024. Born in W. Reading, PA, she was the daughter of the late Kermit Richard Creitz and Sara Myrtle (Beavers) Creitz. She was the wife of the late Richard W. Kelly, who passed away in 2013.

Joan was a 1953 graduate of Wilson High School in Reading, PA. She was also a proud 1957 graduate of Penn State University where she earned a BA in Journalism. She was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority and a writer for The Daily Collegian newspaper. In 1973, she began a career in social work. Joan’s warm, caring personality and attention to detail made her an ideal candidate for this field of work. She worked for the state of PA until her retirement.

Joan was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church. She had many interests, including traveling, gardening, theater, art, and needle crafts and was a dedicated animal lover. Above all else, she was a devoted mother and grandmother. She delighted in hosting her grandchildren for overnight stays and took them on unforgettable trips and adventures. She would truly see the best in everyone and would do anything for anybody.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Tamie L. Leahy of Sacramento, CA; son, Steven R. Griffith, husband of Ann Chisholm, of Newark, DE; and daughter, Lauren G. Risser, wife of Robert, of Lititz. Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Justin (Theresa), Hope (Matthew), Taylor (David), Alexandra, Zachary (Abby), Noah, Amelia, and four great-grandchildren.s

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held in August. An announcement will follow.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joan’s memory may be made to the SPCA, 848 S. Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603.