Joan M. Hersker

Joan “Joanie” Hersker (nee Adair), 66, of Glen Mills, PA, died peacefully surrounded by family and
friends on April 10th, 2019.
Joanie was the devoted wife of the late John Hersker Jr and loving mother to her son John Hersker III
(James.) Beloved sister of Elizabeth Gallagher (Edward) and Mary Irey; Aunt to many nephews; Timothy
(Donna), Edward (Amy), Kevin (Melody), Matthew, Christopher (Joan), Patrick (Alyissa), Robert (Jackie),
Justin (Alyson), David (Eileen) and two nieces Bobby (Bob) and Billy (Nick). She was the great aunt to
many who adored her and she was a friend to all.
She was predeceased by her parents Richard and Elizabeth Adair (nee Kane), brother Richard Adair, as
well as Lou and Janet Soscia (father/mother In-law), whom she admired dearly.
Joanie was born and raised in Upper Darby, PA, and lived there for most of her life. She attended St.
Cyrils and Archbishop Prendergast High School. While raising Johnny, caring for her husband and
working part-time, Joanie pursued and obtained her nursing degree from Widener University. It was
there that Joanie found her calling in life and went on to become a very well known, admired and
respected nurse for twenty years. She was an extraordinary woman who gave everything to provide love
and kindness to everyone she came in contact with. She continued to give even in death by donating to
those in need through The Gift of Life program.
Sixteen years ago Joanie contracted a virus that led to a condition known as Transverse Myelitis which
left her quadriplegic. Although in a wheelchair for many years, her love and support for all never
ceased, and her contagious smile continued to light up a room. She touched the hearts of so many and
loved unconditionally. As long as she was surrounded by family and friends her heart was full.
After developing Transverse Myelitis, Joanie lived with her devoted sister Mary. For fourteen years they
were able to lean on each other, sharing deeper in the love of their families and the joy of watching
them grow. Two years ago Joanie moved into a new home with her son John and his loving partner
James that was equipped with all of the essentials to meet her needs. During this time she was living life
to the fullest and was blessed to have around the clock care. Joanie was continuously surrounded by
family, friends, loved ones, caregivers and The Church. Her family takes great comfort in knowing that
her last few years were some of the happiest and peaceful years of her life.

Her mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 am Wednesday, April 17, 2019, at St. Thomas The Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 430 Valleybrook Road, Glen Mills, Pa. 19342. Family and friends are invited to view from 10-11: 15 am prior to mass in the church. Interment to follow in Ss. Peter and Paul Cemetery, 1600 Sproul Road, Springfield, Pa. 19064
 

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joan M. Hersker, please visit our Tree Store.