Joan J McDaniel

Joan Catherine McDaniel (née Joshua), age 93, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on April 8, 2025, in Somerset, New Jersey. Born on May 31,1931, in New York City, she lived a life marked by dedication to God, education, service to others, and a deep love for family.

A beloved daughter of Wilma Joshua (née Murphy) and Edward Joshua, Joan grew up in Harlem and Queens, NY. With her sister, Patricia, Joan spent her childhood with close family and friends.

Joan's early education began at Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and continued at Bishop McDonnell High School. She went on to earn both her bachelor's and master's degrees from Queens College—an achievement that reflected her lifelong commitment to learning and excellence.

Her professional journey was as diverse as it was impactful. Joan began her career as a caseworker with the Department of Welfare, providing support and advocacy for those in need. She later served as a New York Telephone Company representative before finding her true calling in education. As an educator in the New York City Public Schools, Joan touched countless lives through her guidance and instruction.

On May 29, 1955, Joan married Peter McDaniel. Together, they raised their family amongst many friends in Queens, NY, until his passing in 1996. Joan’s strength is embodied in her three children: son Peter, daughters Kathryn Williams (née McDaniel), and Wilma. Her legacy continues through her son-in-law Geddis Williams, grandchildren—Zachary, Alexa, and Jonathan—and her great-grandson Joseph. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister Patricia Faulkner (née Joshua) and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

While Joan cherished her children, her heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren. She found great joy in being a significant force in their lives, supporting them, and attending their activities and graduations. Towards the end of her life, Joan forged a special bond with her great-grandson, reading and singing to him.

Joan's life was rich with passion and purpose. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, pledging Rho Chapter, and then as an active Soror of Queens Alumnae Chapter, she embodied the organization's values of sisterhood and public service. Her love for music found expression in her participation in both her church choir and the Interboro Chorale Society—highlighted by the honor of performing before Pope John Paul II in 1995. A devout Roman Catholic, Joan served faithfully as an ecumenical minister at St. Bonaventure Church in Queens, New York. Her spiritual devotion was matched by her commitment to community by serving many years as a troop leader with the Girl Scouts, mentoring young girls and helping them broaden their minds and opportunities.

Joan found joy in simple pleasures: tending to her rose garden, immersing herself in mystery novels, attending opera performances and dance recitals. Her appreciation for beauty—in nature, literature, or performance—was evident to all.

Those fortunate enough to know Joan will remember her strong character, sparkling personality, quick wit, warm smile, and generous heart. She brought light into every room she entered and left an indelible mark on all whose lives she touched.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

Acknowledgements

The family of Joan McDaniel extends special thanks and appreciation to Annette Houston, Claudia Alonzo, Grace Otokpa, and Paulette Philp. These extraordinary women cared for Joan in her later years, attending to her health needs and providing loving companionship.

The family also wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many comforting messages, tributes, prayers, and many other expressions of kindness.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Girl Scouts of Greater NY, or the National Kidney Foundation, or the charity of your choice.