Obituary of Joanne M. Stephan

Passed away peacefully with family by her side on December 19, 2025 at the age of 90.

Joanne is predeceased by her beloved daughter, Gretchen Stephan and brother, Frank (Betty) McNab.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Dr. William Stephan; children, Dr. William (Renee) Stephan, Mary Elizabeth (Tim) Sullivan, Barbara (Mark) Sysak and Ann Marie Stephan; grandchildren, Rebecca (Chris) Culhane, Erica (Charles) Ingram, William Stephan, Dr. Anna Stephan, John (Kelsey) Sullivan, Marc Sullivan, Nolan Sullivan; great-grandsons, Vinnie Culhane, Andrew Culhane, Charlie Ingram; sister, Jane Marie James; nieces and nephews; godchildren; and granddog, Shadow.

Joanne began her career as a 4th grade teacher before devoting herself to raising her family. She was a lifelong volunteer committed to organizations including Edelweiss TWIG at RGH, St. Andrew's Food Cupboard, Meals on Wheels and School of the Holy Childhood.

The family of Joanne Stephan invites you to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Kateri Parish, Christ the King Church, 445 Kings Highway, Rochester, NY 14617. Mass will be immediately followed by a luncheon at Oak Hill Country Club, 145 Kilbourn Rd. Rochester, NY 14618. We look forward to celebrating Joanne's life and our love for her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Joanne's memory to School of the Holy Childhood, 100 Groton Parkway, Rochester, NY 14623 or Rochester Childfirst Network, 941 South Ave, Rochester, NY 14620.