Joan S Gardiner

Joan S. (Feltz) Gardiner, 80, of East Hanover, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on September 18, 2022.

Born and raised in Jersey City, Joan graduated from New Jersey State Teacher College (now New Jersey City University) with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. For over 20 years as owner and operator of Schifano Tutoring Services in East Hanover, she took great pleasure in working with students to build both their reading skills and confidence level. She authored two children’s learning books: Rocco: Please Somebody Notice Me and Rocco: I Wish, I Wish, I Wish.

Her lifelong love of trains began with childhood trips with her family across the country, but especially to Point Pleasant beach. She happily shared that love with her grandchildren when they were young, and over the years they continued to make wonderful memories together.

Above all, Joan loved spending time with family and friends. She had a big heart and always brought a smile to the face of everyone she met, whether she was meeting you for the first time or if you were a longtime friend.  She also loved animals, the beach, Neil Diamond’s music, and had a sense of humor that sometimes caught you off guard.

Joan was the beloved wife of 20 years to Kevin C. Gardiner.  Devoted mother of Phil J. Schifano, his wife Cindy, Chris A. Wear, her boyfriend Sam, Mike J. Schifano and his wife Becky.  Cherished grandmother of Jeffrey & Jenna Wear.  Dear sister of Teresa Cuccinello, her husband Albie, John Feltz and his wife Donna.  Joan was also survived by her brother-in-law Anthony Scarpa and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Joan was pre-deceased by her parents Theodore and Theresa Feltz and her sister Lorraine Scarpa. 

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Thursday from 4-7pm.  Funeral on Friday assembling at the funeral home at 11:30am followed by the funeral mass at St. Rose of Lima Church in East Hanover at 12:30pm.  Entombment at Restland Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joan’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association, see donation box below for details…

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