Joanne G. Best

Joanne G. (Smith) Best, 92, of Walnutport, passed away Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Mahoning Nursing & Rehab, Lehighton. She was the widow of Lovett E. Best, who passed away in 2014. Born in Palmerton on January 18, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Dale and Beulah (Carpenter) Smith. Joanne was a cafeteria worker for the Northern Lehigh School District. Prior to that, she was the head cook at the former Walnutport Elementary School. She was a faithful member of Christ UCC, Walnutport, where she served as church elder, and choir member. 

Joanne will be lovingly remembered by a son: Michael R.C. Best and wife Connie of Slatington; daughters: Suzanne L. and husband Bryon Kern of Emerald, Kathy S. and husband Robert Marsh of Slatington, Connie S. and husband Peter Kovacic of Pottstown; 9 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother: Richard Smith of Schnecksville; as well as many nieces & nephews. She was pre-deceased by a grandson, Robert M. Best, a brother Dale Smith and sister, Marlea Penberth. 

A funeral service will be held at 11am on Friday, October 18, 2024 at Harding Funeral Home, 25-27 N. Second Street, Slatington. Family and friends may pay their respects from 10 to 11am at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Union Cemetery, Slatington. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joanne’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl, Memphis TN 38105.