JoAnn E. Packan

JoAnn Eleanor Packan, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, died of natural causes on April 8, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on January 23, 1944, JoAnn was the daughter of Robert and Ann (Maslanich) Decarlo. She was the oldest of five siblings, including Robert, Linda, Santo, and Annette.

JoAnn graduated from Redstone High School in 1961, where she was known for her vibrant spirit and leadership as a cheerleader. Her energy and popularity made her a beloved figure among her classmates. In her youth, she loved attending sock hops and dancing the night away with friends and family.

After high school, JoAnn moved to Cleveland to work in the cannery and to live with her Uncle Albert and his wife, Angie. During this time, JoAnn’s warm and outgoing personality earned her many friends, and she enjoyed frequent visits home to attend dances, parties, and family holidays. It was during one of these visits that she met the love of her life, Charles Packan.

JoAnn and Charlie married on July 27, 1963, at St. Nicholas Greek Catholic Church, and together they built a loving family. They were devoted partners throughout their 60 years of marriage. JoAnn’s love and devotion to Charles were unwavering, and their bond was a true testament to the strength of their relationship.

JoAnn was a proud mother to Pamela, Charlie, Nicole, and Gina, and she took great joy in her life’s work as a mother and grandmother. In 1976, JoAnn and Chuck bought their home on Linganore Woods Drive, where they met neighbors who became family, Rob and Georgiann Toni, and raised their children side by side. JoAnn’s children and grandchildren were her greatest treasures. Her warm and nurturing presence was a constant source of care, no matter what, there was no better place to be than in her loving arms. Her legacy of love, gentleness, and quiet strength will continue to inspire them for generations to come.

Known by many affectionate nicknames, including Jo, Josie and Grammy, JoAnn had a heart overflowing with love for her family and friends. She was always ready with a smile, a kind word, and a helping hand. Her daughters and Granddaughters fondly recall JoAnn as their trustworthy confidant and compassionate secret-keeper. Her warm hugs, soft kisses and joyful laughter will be missed by all who knew her.

JoAnn’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to everyone who has offered their support and love during this difficult time. She will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her love of life, and her deep devotion to her family.

JoAnn leaves behind her beloved children and their spouses whom she loved as her own, Pamela and Daniel Knight, Charlie and Angie Packan, Nicole and David Knight, and Gina and Justin Humphreys; 10 grandchildren and their spouses, and 10 great grandchildren; siblings; Nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other cherished family members and friends. She is welcomed into eternal peace by her loving parents, Robert and Ann Decarlo, her beloved Grandma Concetta, her dear brothers Robert and Santo Decarlo, and she is finally back in the loving arms of her husband Charles Packan.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 pm and 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Stauffer Funeral Homes, P.A., 1621 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick.

A celebration of JoAnn's life journey will take place at 11:00 am on Monday, April 14, 2025, from the funeral home chapel.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Kline Hospice House at this link: https://www.frederickhealthhospice.org/

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at StaufferFuneralHome.com.

A closing note:

As JoAnn’s Granddaughters, we are humbled to have the immense honor of writing her obituary. As we reflect together, we are overcome by the blessing it was to be raised in the warmth of her love, the grit of her quiet strength, and the many lessons she so gracefully taught us through her witty humor. The legacy she leaves behind is one of kindness, compassion, and a heart that touched so many. While our hearts ache at her passing, we will honor her memory by living the way she taught us-with love, grace, and a generous spirit.

“There are people in this world who are here to save you when you need saving, cover your ass when it needs covering, and are always there when you need someone to lean on.” To the leader of our sisterhood, rest in peace, “Queen Rosie Josie The Great.” Your love will forever guide us. TaTa!

With love and respect,

Alexa, Natalie and Gillian.