Joan F. Queripel, 88, of Stockton (Delaware Township), NJ, died on Friday, June 1, 2018, at her beloved home of 58 years.

Born in Plymouth, MA, Joan was an education professional who taught in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District in Pennington, NJ from 1958 to 1994. elementary She taught both fourth and fifth grade until 1974, when she became the helping teacher. For the next 17 years Joan worked with K-6 teachers across the school district, helping them improve instruction, explore teaching innovations and enable both teachers and students to become more successful. She was named the District’s Staff Developmental Specialist in 1991, teaching teachers at every grade level in an innovative district program to promote teacher growth and expertise. After retirement from the Hopewell Valley District, Joan joined the faculty at Seton Hall University in South Orange as an adjunct professor of education.

Joan was the consummate education professional. She saw the achievements of her students and her colleagues as her achievements. She treasured learning and the ability to enhance the lives of others through education. She retired in 2000.

Joan graduated from Trenton State College in 1952 and completed her graduate work at Rutgers University and Trenton State College.

After retirement Joan became a studio artist, working in watercolors, pastels and colored pencils. She showed her work in an annual group art show at St. James Church in Pennington. She had many other interests including gardening, swimming, the theater, bird watching, reading and solving crossword puzzles. She was a regular attendee at the New Jersey Symphony and the McCarter Theater. She loved animals. Joan loved interacting with family and friends. Joan was a longtime volunteer for Meals on Wheels. Though retired from education, Joan was always available to tutor struggling students and lead them to the wonders of learning.

Joan was the daughter of the late Archibald E. and Della M. Walsh Queripel, the sister of the late William E. Queripel and the dear friend of the late Elizabeth M. Keller. She is survived by her sister Margaret Q. Gilmore of Bedminster, PA, her niece Ann Riordan of Pipersville, PA and her nephew Sean Riordan of Bedminster, Pa.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 23, at 11 am at the Solebury Friends Meeting House, 2680 Sugan Road, New Hope, PA 18938.

In lieu of flowers donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the education organization of your choice.