Joan Wilson Sears, former resident of Seaford, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Dec. 31, 2023 at Life Care Center in Hilliard, Fla. She was reunited with her husband of 50 years and World War II vet, John Thomas Sears. 

Joan was born Aug. 1, 1931 to Dr. and Mrs. John (Wilma) Wilson of Worchester, Ma. Later, with her family she relocated to Annapolis, Md. where she met her husband and together raised their nine children. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School, received a Bachelor’s degree from Bowie State, and a Master’s degree from John’s Hopkins University with a focus in special education. 

She was a passionate teacher who loved her many students. She began her teaching career at Folger McKinsey Elementary School in Severna Park, Md. teaching first grade from 1975 to 1991. Later she served as a reading specialist working with special needs students at Epworth Christian School in Laurel. Joan was a devout Christian, enjoyed singing in her church choir, and dedicating her “retired” years to teaching many struggling young students to read. 

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, John, as well as, children Suzanne Henry, Michael Sears, and Robert Sears. She leaves behind six children and their families; Tina (Fred) Roeder, John (Diane) Sears, Theresa (John) Woodfield, James (Roslyn) Sears, Elaine (Bruce) Culler, and Diane Stancavage. She was known as “Grandmommy” to her 17 grandchildren and “Great” or “Great Grandmom” to her 18 great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all of whom loved her dearly.

A private interment service will be held for the family at the Delaware Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, where she will be laid to rest with her late husband. All are welcome to attend the memorial service celebrating Joan’s life to be held at Central Worship Center (formerly, Epworth Fellowship) located at 14511 Sycamore Road in Laurel. The service will take place on Feb. 3, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Epworth Christian School.