Joan Alice Keplinger

When a limb falls from a family tree, the shape of the tree changes forever. Joan Alice Keplinger, 86, of Woodbury, Connecticut, passed away surrounded by the love of the family she helped nurture for generations.

Joan is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Edward Keplinger; her children, Janet (Jaime) Bartolini, Edward (Jeanne) Keplinger Jr., Betsy Keplinger, and Andrew (Melissa) Keplinger; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; her siblings, Ken (Joanne) Myers, Gerry (Mary Ann) Myers, Susan (David) Cromwell, and Steve (Pam) Myers; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alice and Harry Myers Sr.; her brother, Harry Myers Jr.; and her sister-in-law, Toni Myers.

Born in Camden, New Jersey, Joan was a graduate of Mattatuck Community College, a talented computer systems programmer, former Betty Crocker test baker, and dedicated Girl Scout troop leader who led countless adventures and inspired generations of young women.

She had a gift for making holidays feel special, especially Thanksgiving, and was known for her cookies, cakes, and annual holiday cookie walks for the Church of the Epiphany in Southbury, CT.

A passionate Syracuse sports fan, her connection to the Orange began when two of her children attended Syracuse University. What started as supporting her children grew into a lifelong devotion to Syracuse athletics. She also loved the Jersey Shore, enjoyed trying her luck at the casino, and traveled extensively throughout the United States with Edward following their retirement.

Though a limb has fallen from our family tree, Joan's legacy lives on in the traditions she created, the lives she touched, and the family she loved so dearly.

Family and friends may call on Friday, June 12, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET at Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, Woodbury, CT.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. ETat Church of the Epiphany, Southbury, CT.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VITAS Hospice, St Mary's Hospital, Waterbury, CT or Church of the Epiphany, Southbury, CT in memory of Joan Keplinger.