Joyce E. Scanlon (née Nelson) of Fair Haven passed away July 20, 2021. She was born in Kearny and graduated from Kearny High where she was the drum majorette leading the “Kardinal” marching band at every parade. After high school she attended Bucknell University, focusing on creative writing and a general pursuit of greater knowledge as a member of Delta Zeta sorority.
After school Joyce worked for Blue Cross in Newark before marrying Martin J. Scanlon in 1957, who moved in across the street from her on Stuyvesant Ave. They relocated to Fair Haven and immersed themselves in the community while raising four children.
Joyce worked in the Fair Haven school system for many years, coached girls’ softball and volunteered in any way she could. She also was an avid participant in Boy Scouts, beginning as a den mother, then working endless summers at Quail Hill Camp as the arts & crafts director until she was awarded Scouting’s highest honor from the Monmouth County Council.
Joyce was also lifelong Yankees’ fan; she attended Babe Ruth’s funeral at Yankee Stadium as a teenager. She loved movies, took adult Spanish classes and cooking. Maybe most of all was her love of nature and animals. She adopted many animals and loved them all. She traveled to Maine nearly every year of her life, most often camping.
Her genuine, kind personality led her to many wonderful friendships and experiences. Her life was meaningful and she made a positive impact wherever she went. Her family is very proud of the legacy Joyce left behind.
Joyce was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Kathryn Nelson, and her loving husband of 52 years Martin J. Scanlon. She is survived by her children, Ellen and her husband Cameron; Harry; Jim and his wife Veronica; and Steve and his wife Patti. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Alex, Matt, Lynelle, Carolyn and Holly and her step-grandchildren Jake and Madison Clapp.
Visitation was July 25 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A graveside service was held July 26 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Middletown.
The article originally appeared in the July 29 – August 4, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
