Joan Enke

Joan M. Enke, 95, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026. Born on July 15, 1930, in New Brighton, she was the daughter of the late Jesse B. and Edith P. (Keller) Enke. Joan was always grateful to have been born into a loving and caring family and community, a foundation that shaped her kind and generous spirit throughout her life.

Joan devoted 31 years of faithful service as the church secretary at Grace Lutheran Church, Rochester, PA, where she was known for her dedication and warm presence. A woman of deep Lutheran faith, she was a lifelong member of the former Trinity Lutheran Church in New Brighton.

A proud and lifelong resident of New Brighton, Joan was a devoted supporter and contributor to the New Brighton Historical Society. She was an avid student of local history and possessed a remarkable knowledge of her hometown. She also enjoyed frequent trips with friends to Pittsburgh for sightseeing and entertainment and especially loved attending high school musicals throughout Beaver County.

Joan was a member of the Beaver County Blind Association and Lighthouse for the Blind. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her for her signature hats and the ever-present smile on her face. Her life was enriched by a loving and supportive family and a close circle of dear friends whose visits and phone calls she cherished. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Joan is survived by her sister, Alyce Buffington, La Mirada, CA and her sister-in-law, Lee Enke, Manassas, VA, her nephews Brett Buffington, Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Lance (Kathy) Buffington, San Clemente, CA, Scott (Cyndy) Enke, Garner, NC and David (Cindy) Enke, Ruther Glen, VA, and nieces Lisa (Enke) Kasher, Porter, TX and Lori (Enke) Paulson, Manassas, VA and cousins Paul Bruce Keller, New Brighton, PA and Debbie (John) Fogg, New Brighton, PA and all of their many children and grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother Don Enke and brother-in-law Gordon Buffington,

Per Joan’s request, her remains were cremated and interred at Sylvania Hills Cemetery without funeral services.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Good Samaritan Hospice House, Wexford, for the excellent care and comfort provided during her final days.

Donations may be made in memory of Joan to The Lighthouse for the Blind, The New Brighton Historical Society or the New Brighton Public Library.