Joan Caroline Bartfay, a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on September 2, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by her family.

Born in New York in 1935 to Sterling and Mildred Nichols (Pearis), Joan was a graduate of Bowling Green University, where she earned her teaching degree. She went on to dedicate 25 years to teaching elementary school, leaving a lasting impact on her students and community.

In 1959, she married the love of her life, Richard Bartfay. Together, they shared a beautiful love story that took them to Hollywood, Florida. After Joan’s retirement from teaching, they settled in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where they spent 30 joyful years together in their beloved home.

Joan was a talented quilter and an active member of her Quilt Guild. Her artistry produced many quilts, some of which won awards at local shows. When she wasn’t quilting, Joan loved travelling the world with her husband of 66 years. Together, they explored countless places, cherishing every adventure and building a lifetime of treasured memories.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Sterling and Mildred, and her three brothers, Herb, Bill, and Bob Nichols.

Joan is survived by her two children: Son- Dale Richard Bartfay (wife Kathie), Hollywood, Florida, Daughter- Brenda Elizabeth Staring (husband Tommy), St Augustine, Florida. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Kyle Richard Bartfay (wife Erica), Kaitlyn Mary Clark (husband Trey) Trevor Alan Mazzeo, and her great-grandchildren: Hudson Bartfay, Hazel Bartfay, Thomas Henry Clark IV (Ford)

Joan’s life was defined by love, creativity, and family. Her memory will live on through the quilts she crafted, the stories she shared, and the legacy she built with those she loved most.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to a charity of your choice.