WILMINGTON — Joan Nancy Miastkowski, age 92, a cherished resident of Eastwood Village in Wilmington, NC, and formerly of Levittown, NY, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 15, 1932, in Brooklyn, New York, to Jean Michaels and Alfred DeCesare and his wife Josephine, Joan lived a life devoted to her family, friends, and community.
In 1954, Joan married her beloved husband, John Miastkowski. They held hands for 69 wonderful years, building a life rooted in love, resilience, and joy. They raised their family in Levittown, NY, where they lived for 36 years, spent weekends at Eagle Lake in Gouldsboro, PA, and eventually retired to Wilmington, NC.
Joan was a woman of many talents and a vibrant presence in her community. She served as a Girl Scout leader and belonged to many organizations, including the Division Avenue High School Music Department, PTA, the Apache Marching Band Parents Association, and the Eagle Lake Newcomers Club.
Professionally, Joan’s contributions were equally commendable. She worked in a urology office, then in Account Administration for Avis Car Leasing from 1977 to 1989. Outside of work, she expressed her creativity through painting ceramics and selling Avon products.
At home, Joan’s organizational skills and warm spirit shone brightly. She seamlessly balanced work, family, and her cherished holiday traditions. Joan baked countless Christmas cookies, prepared delicious family meals—including her famous eggplant parmesan, meatballs, stuffed peppers and chip and cherry cake—and ensured every holiday was filled with joy and love. When asked about her greatest accomplishments, she simply replied, “My marriage and my children—just be happy.” She and John shared a love of travel, especially enjoying cruises and visits to Hawaii and Australia.
Joan is survived by her devoted children: Jean Anne Studer (Gary), Janet Chetti (Salvatore), John Miastkowski (Elizabeth), and James Miastkowski (Grace); her sister-in-law, Jean Miastkowski (Cesare); and her treasured grandchildren: Jackie Cuciti (Christopher), Jennifer, Salvatore (Elizabeth), Michael, Katy Laino (Joe), Christine Fisk (Dan), Brian, and Lauren. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Joseph, Ryan, Joe, Vinny, and John; her nephew, Christopher Shea; her cousins Donald DeCesare (Laura) Robert DeCesare (Cathy) and her extended family and countless friends, whose lives she touched with her kindness and generosity.
Joan was predeceased by her husband, John; her brother-in-law, Edward; and her sister-in-law, Joan. Her passing leaves an immense void, but her memory will forever be a source of love, inspiration, and warmth for all who knew her.
Please leave memories and condolences for Joan’s family here.
