Mildred Joan Hart, affectionately known by many friends as “Joanie” passed peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Monday, July 15, 2024. Joan graced this world with her birth on Sept. 20, 1939 in Dagsboro to parents James and Anna Mae Marvel.
Before she moved to Seaford in 1966, she lived in Millsboro where she had fond memories of working at Beebe Hospital in the labor and delivery area caring for the newborns. After locating to Seaford, her passion for sewing led her to a long career in interior decorating where she designed window treatments and accessories for customers throughout Delaware and Maryland. Through her business, “Joan’s Hang Ups,” she forged many life-long friendships.
Her strong faith led her to serve others in various capacities in the community through her memberships at both Concord and Centenary United Methodist Churches. She was led to serve in ministries in both churches as well as dedicating herself to teaching Sunday school classes. She furthered her mission to spread the word of Christ through a Bible study she taught in her home for 25 years.
Always willing to serve others in the community, Joan volunteered her time in local organizations. She held multiple positions in the Laurel Lioness Club. She volunteered for hospice and helped at the Georgetown Pregnancy Center. She filled a need at the Laurel Elementary school reading to students through a mentoring program.
Joan loved gardening and that labor of her love was featured in two home and garden tours. She enjoyed cooking and family and friends were rewarded when attending one of her large and frequent get togethers.
Later in her life, Joan enjoyed traveling and was able to experience several different cultures around the world.
Joan is survived by her husband, Everett Hart; children Gary Pianka (Kay), Greg Pianka, Dave Hart (Chris), Kelly Cordrey, Donald Cordrey (Donna), Faron Cordrey (Kiki) and Tim Pianka (Kris); grandchildren Tara, Laura, Gregory, Kurt, Jason, Adrienne, Toby, Chad, Sarah, Ashley, Kai, Maile, and Drew; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, James, David, Pat, a sister Mary Lou, and grandson Kyle.
A funeral service in honor of Joan was held at Centenary Methodist Church in Laurel on Monday, July 22. The Reverend Dean Perdue officiated. Interment followed at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Seaford.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Centenary Methodist Church, 200 W. Market Street, Laurel, DE 19956 or to VITAS Hospice by visiting Donate – Remembering Through Giving | VITAS Community Connection.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be shared with Joan’s family by visiting www.shortfh.com.