Obituary of Joann M. Petersen

Joann (Geraci) Petersen, 71 of Millville, formally of Vineland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 31, 2018, surrounded by her loving family, at Inspira Medical Center following a brief illness. Born to the late Joseph and Anna (Sterchele) Geraci, Joann was raised in Vineland and was a 1966 graduate of Vineland High School. After graduating nursing school she worked at Newcomb Hospital in labor and delivery until the birth of her daughter. Joann worked various jobs throughout her life and they all involved the helping, caring and assistance of others. She worked as a home health aide, as an activities director for Fairfield Adult Medical Day Care Center, and most recently, as an instructor for the developmentally disabled at PAFA Training Center in Vineland. Before retiring, she spent her last years working (for PAFA) at the former "Gifts from the Heart" Store on Delsea Drive. Joann was a talented artist and loved to draw, paint and craft. She also loved the great outdoors and instilled the love of nature in her children. She enjoyed camping, especially at Parvin State Park. When her children were younger she was a 4H leader for a number of years. Joann was a nurturer and always put the needs of others before her own. She will be remembered as a loving mother, caring and fun grammy, devoted sister and loyal friend. Her pride and joy were her four grandchildren and she always looked forward to spoiling and spending time with them. She will be sadly missed by many. She is survived by a brother, Greg (Cathy) Geraci; sister, Denise Starn and partner Sam; daughter, Jill (Wayne) Mesiano; son, David (Nichcole) Petersen; four grandchildren, Larah-Ann, Emily Faith, David Joseph Petersen Jr. and Arabella Anne Mesiano and aunts, cousins, many nieces and nephews. Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 from 9am to 11am at DeMarco-Luisi Funeral Home, 2755 S. Lincoln Ave., Vineland. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 11:30am at Christ the Good Shepherd Parish, St. Isidore's Church, 1655 Magnolia Road, Vineland. Joann will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Vineland. Memories, thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family by visiting dlfuneral.com.