Joan T. Smith

Joan T. Smith, of Ocean City, NJ, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Philadelphia, Joan was raised in Narberth, PA, and was the daughter of the late Edwin and Dolores (Mullen) Thompson. She attended Lower Merion High School and later worked as an Administrative Assistant at Janney Montgomery Scott in Lancaster, PA, before retiring.

Joan was a woman who embraced life and found joy in the things she loved most. She had a passion for singing, dancing, fashion, and reading. She especially loved to sing in public, and those who knew her will fondly remember her enthusiasm for performing her favorite song, “Elvira” by the Oak Ridge Boys.

Above all, Joan loved being at the shore in Ocean City, where she was happiest surrounded by her family and friends. Her loyal German Shepherd, Rex, was never far from her side and was a beloved part of her life.

Joan was a wonderful and supportive mother and grandmother. She was blessed to spend the last few years of her life living with her daughter, Jennifer, and grandson, Andrew. She filled their home with her warmth, beautiful smile, and laughter, creating memories that they will treasure forever.

Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Edward Hyra; her parents, Edwin and Dolores Thompson; and her sister and brother-in-law, Geraldine (Thompson) and James Barone Sr.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Smith) Valentine; her grandson, Andrew Valentine; her nieces, Susan Barone Davis (Chris), Diane Barone Mitchell (James), and her nephew, James Barone Jr. and his wife, Liz; as well as numerous cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Joan will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her love of music and the shore, her sense of style, her infectious laughter, and, most of all, the love she shared with her family and friends. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

A gathering in Joan’s memory will be held on Friday October 9th at McConaghy Funeral Home. 328 W. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore, PA 19003. Visitation will be held from 10:00–11:00 a.m., followed by a service Celebrating Her Life at 11:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery in West Conshohocken, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joan’s memory to the Shore Cancer Center (c/o of Shore Medical Center Development Office). 100 Medical Center Way, Somers Point, NJ 08244, or online at Shore Medical Center Giving