Obituary of Joan Frances Umfress

Joan Frances Connolly was born on February 19, 1947 in Charleston, West Virginia. She was one of three children born from the union of the late Stewart Connolly and the late Carrie (Atkins) Connolly. At a young age, she moved with her family from West Virginia to Ohio to Michigan for her father’s job. It was in Michigan, where she planted her roots.

She met and married the love of her life, Millard “Pete” Umfress on October 10, 1967. It was from this union that came the birth of their two beautiful daughters. She was a stay at home mom, tending to her family, until they started school and she began working. She remained active with the school they attended and was very involved with the PTO. A favorite to all her daughter’s classmates, she was known for making the best rice krispie treats.

Most recently, Joan worked as an administrative team member for the automotive industry. She enjoyed time spent watching tv, especially her courtroom shows and her favorite soap opera: The Young and The Restless. She stayed true to her southern roots when it came to cooking and made the best chicken and dumplings. She also adored her beloved cat Zoey. 

Joan was a great mother to her daughters and the best grandmother any kid could ask for. She enjoyed the time she spent with them, especially when they were playing games and wrestling around with one another. Her kind heart and relaxed nature will be missed by everyone who knew her.

Joan Frances Umfress, age 71, of Monroe, passed away on Friday, April 20, 2018 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg. Her passing is preceded by her husband: Millard “Pete” Umfress; her sister: Linda Connolly-Smith and her parents: Stewart and Carrie Connolly.  

To cherish her memory, she leaves her two daughters: Cheryl Umfress and Vicky Umfress; her brother: William (Jean) Connolly; her grandsons: Joshua St. Bernard, Justin St. Bernard, Jacob St. Bernard, Steven Eads, Hunter Eads and Brandon Eads; her great-granddaughters: Molly St. Bernard, Kailey Eads, SchaeLynn Eads and Harper Eads and many extended family members and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe 14567 South Dixie Highway (734) 241-7070. Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, share a photo or memory by visiting our website at www.merklefs.com. Memorial contributions can be made relay for life by visiting their website at www.relayforlife.org.