Joeanne H. Willey

January 15, 1943 - October 3, 2018

DELMAR- Joeanne H. Wiiley, 75, of Mardela Springs, and formerly of Delmar, passed away peacefully at the Delmar Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. She was born January 15, 1943 in Milford, a daughter of the late Floyd L. Hastings and Metha Johnson (Shedaker) Hastings. Joeanne graduated from Delmar High School with the class of 1961 before earning her degree at Bridgewater College in 1965. She had a heart for teaching and enjoyed a wonderful career as a French and Spanish teacher at Delmar High School, from where she retired in 1991. She loved supporting her son and all of Delmar High’s students in sports and other activities, and for many years served as scorekeeper for the basketball and wrestling teams. One of her favorite school activities was having the privilege to chaperone class trips and getting to experience the culture of Europe and other areas. She loved teaching so much that even after retirement she returned as a substitute teacher which she continued to do for many years. She will be remembered as a loving mom, sister, aunt, teacher and friend to many. She is survived by her son, Eric L. Willey (Molly) of Ararat, North Carolina; a sister, Sandy Donohoe (Phil) of Mardela Springs; a brother, Stayton L. Hastings of Delmar; nieces and nephews, Tallie Figgs (Lonnie), Robert Hurley, Stayton M. Hastings (Shauna), and Mike Donohoe (fianceé, Kristen Digiammo); and several great nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Reds” L. Willey; and a sister, Margaret E. Downey. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, October 8, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, followed by a memorial service which begins at 3:00 p.m. The Reverend Howard Travers will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Delmar Athletic Booster Club, c/o Ilah Preston, 200 N. 8th Street, Delmar, DE 19940. Arrangements are being handled by Short Funeral Home of Delmar. Online condolences may be expressed at www.shortfh.com.