Joan Aelene Herr

Joan Aelene Herr, born on April 7, 1926, in Van Wert, Ohio, peacefully passed away on July 28, 2025, in New Albany, Indiana, with her devoted family by her side. A loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Joan lived a life full of compassion, adventure, and unwavering loyalty.

Educated at Wolcottville Indiana High School, Joan’s professional journey as the Head Dietician for Lakeland High School was marked by her dedication to nourishing young minds and bodies. However, her proudest achievements were not confined to her career. She cherished her role as a devoted homemaker and mother, taking immense joy in watching her family grow and thrive.

Joan's adventurous spirit and creative flair embraced many hobbies and interests. As a "red hatter," she reveled in joining fellow women for fun and friendship. She enjoyed gardening, where her love for flowers blossomed, and taking time to mow her lawn, finding peace in the rhythm of nature. An avid cook and a passionate reader, Joan delighted in traveling around the world, with trips to Florida being particularly special for her. There, she loved to collect shells, returning from each adventure with stories that captivated her loved ones.

Family meant everything to Joan. She poured her heart into caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, ensuring they always felt loved and supported. Her legacy lives on through her daughter, Pamela Herr (Ryan) Compton, daughter Ann Langford, and brother Ronald (Shirley) Harp. The warmth of her nurturing presence will long be remembered by her granddaughters, Melissa (Charlie) Adams, Catrina (Brad) Ellis, and Ada (Mark) Schwaber, as well as her cherished great-grandsons, Oliver Adams, Andrew Adams, Aidric Ellis, and Emmett Ellis.

Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, John V. Herr, and her parents, Gerald Harp and Goldie Harp, as well as her son-in-law, Kirby Langford. Though they are no longer physically with her, their memories remain close to her heart, providing comfort in her final days.

In remembering Joan, we honor a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to have known her. Her legacy of kindness and familial devotion will be forever cherished by all who were blessed to be part of her journey.

A private ceremony will be held in her honor at a later date. Newcomer Southern Indiana Chapel, 3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany Indiana 47150, is entrusted with her arrangements.