Obituary of Joan Smith

Joan Smith, 87, of Wharton, NJ, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 11, 1938, in Dover, New Jersey, Joan was the daughter of the late Donald and Elsie Best. She spent many happy years in Wharton, NJ.

Joan lived a life centered on love, family, and simple joys. She had a wonderful talent for cooking and a passion for gardening, often sharing the fruits of her labor with those she loved. Above all else, Joan's greatest happiness came from caring for others. She took immense pride in looking after her family and friends, and she delighted in spoiling her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren whenever she could. Her warmth, generosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Smith, Jr., who passed away in 2004.

She is survived by her loving children, John Smith and his wife Jamie, and Debbie Storms and her partner Ken DeMerritt; her cherished grandchildren, Michael Riker and his wife Molly, Rebecca Riker, Daniel Smith, and Ally Smith; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Abigail Riker, William Riker, Makayla Riker and Alex Riker. Joan is also survived by her two brothers, Robert Best and his wife Estella, and James Best and his wife Linda, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Joan's Life Celebration will include a memorial visitation on Saturday, March 21 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home, 150 Landing Road, Landing, NJ. A family eulogy will be offered at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. All other arrangements are private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joan's loving memory to Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that Joan's kindness, love, and the many memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.