Joan M. Enke, 95, of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on March 1st, 2026. She was born in New Brighton on July 15th, 1930, a daughter of the late Jesse B. and Edith P. (Keller) Enke. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Don Enke and her brother-in-law, Gordon Buffington. She is survived by her sister, Alyce Buffington of La Mirada, California and her sister-in-law, Lee Enke, Manassas, Virginia, her nephews, Brett Buffington of Rancho Cucamonga, California, Lance (Kathy) Buffington of San Clemente, California, Scott (Cyndy) Enke of Garner, North Carolina and David (Cindy) Enke of Ruther Glen, Virginia, and nieces, Lisa (Enke) Kasher of Porter, Texas and Lori (Enke) Paulson of Manassas, Virginia and cousins, Paul Bruce Keller of New Brighton and Debbie (John) Fogg of New Brighton and all of their many children and grandchildren.

Joan was always grateful to have been born into a loving and caring family and community, a foundation that shaped her kind and generous spirit throughout her life. She devoted 31 years of faithful service as the church secretary at Grace Lutheran Church in Rochester where she was known for her dedication and warm presence. She was a woman of deep Lutheran faith and she was a lifelong member of the former Trinity Lutheran Church in New Brighton. She was a proud and lifelong resident of New Brighton and she  was a devoted supporter and contributor to the New Brighton Historical Society. She was an avid student of local history and possessed a remarkable knowledge of her hometown. She also enjoyed frequent trips with friends to Pittsburgh for sightseeing and entertainment and especially loved attending high school musicals throughout Beaver County. She was a member of the Beaver County Blind Association and Lighthouse for the Blind. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her for her signature hats and the ever-present smile on her face. Her life was enriched by a loving and supportive family and a close circle of dear friends whose visits and phone calls she cherished. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

In accordance with Joan’s request, her remains were cremated and interred at Sylvania Hills Cemetery, 273 PA-68, Rochester, without funeral services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Good Samaritan Hospice House, Wexford, for the excellent care and comfort provided during her final days.

Donations may be made in memory of Joan to The Lighthouse for the Blind, 720 3rd Ave, New Brighton, PA 15066, The New Brighton Historical Society or the New Brighton Public Library, 1021 3rd Ave, New Brighton, PA 15066.