Joan Ilene Neuharth

Joan Ilene Neuharth, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on November 10, 2026, at the age of 89.

Joan’s greatest joy was her family. She was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured the generations of family she helped create. Her love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was a special part of her life, and the memories shared with them will be cherished for years to come.

She is survived by her children, Wendy Colwell and Robert (Angelina Rojas) Neuharth; her sister Joyce Anderson. Six grandchildren- Megan(Grey) Smith, Rebecca (Chris) Olson, Skylar (Alyx) Kovack, Sarah (Clayton) Bunch, Rachel, and Jacob Neuharth; and 14 great-grandchildren- Kyle, Lily, Jaxon, Olivia, Ethan, Cassidy, Haylee, Sadie, Claire, Haisley, CJ, Levi, Westen, & Wyatt. Many beloved nieces and nephews and close friends, Carole Marders & Paula Myers.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Roscoe Neuharth; her infant son, Richard; and her first husband, Wayne Martin.

Joan enjoyed listening to the Irish Tenors and getting lost in the pages of Nora Roberts novels. These simple pleasures, along with the time she spent with those she loved, were among the things that made her life special.

Her family will forever hold close the memories, love, and moments they shared with her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on through the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who loved her.

Her service will be held at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, Virginia at the Sherwood Abbey on November 27th at 2pm.