Obituary of Joan M. Munson

Joan M. Munson, 81, of Dover, New Jersey died Sunday, November 23rd at Merry Heart in Succasunna. Joan was larger than life and her passions and joie de vivre were indescribable. She was an intelligent and wise woman who took it upon herself to give of herself when she saw a need – anywhere. Joan was a teacher of the deaf in the Morris County Public School System her entire working life and had a lasting impact on the lives of her students and families. She retired at a young age and became very active in the Dover community. She volunteered at Dover General Hospital for decades and helped organize the Save Dover General campaign. Joan also devoted years of humanitarian service to Hospice and Hope House. She employed her love of puppetry in all her volunteer activities. First Memorial Presbyterian Church of Dover was fortunate to have her as a life-long member where she served as an Elder, a teacher and a volunteer. She was passionate about the arts. Early on she joined the Dover Little Theater, acting, directing and producing plays and eventually becoming a lifetime member. Joan was often found at the back door of a Broadway theater or the Metropolitan Opera collecting autographs. Joan was an avid photographer and her camera accompanied her in her extensive travels throughout the world. She is survived by her brother, Sidney Munson, and her cousins Robert Arendt and Dorothy Arcari and their families, and by the many friends who considered Joan to be part of their families. Joan’s final message was: “Thank you for the use of your stage.” A memorial service is planned for Saturday, December 13th at 11am at First Memorial Presbyterian Church, 51 West Blackwell Street, Dover. A repast will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to First Memorial Presbyterian Church. Arrangements by Tuttle Funeral Home ( www.tuttlefh.com ).