Joan Petroski Mallette Obituary

With great love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joan Petroski Mallette (née Lynn) on March 20th, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on July 15, 1935, in The Bronx, NY, Joan lived a life full of faith, kindness, and boundless dedication to others.

From a young age, Joan excelled academically, graduating from Evander Childs High School at just 16. She moved with her family to Bogota, NJ, in 1953, where she began working for NY Telephone and NJ Bell. But Joan's ambition and caring spirit led her to nursing school at Hackensack Hospital. She graduated in 1958 and forged lifelong friendships with her fellow students.

In July 1957, Joan's life was forever changed when she became a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ during a Billy Graham Crusade. This faith became the foundation of her life.

Joan married Kenneth Petroski in 1961, and together they raised three children: Sue, Mark, and David. She was not only a devoted mother but also a tireless caregiver to others. Her nursing career spanned 60 years, during which she worked in various settings, including hospitals, veterans' homes, and as a visiting psychiatric nurse.

Joan's heart for service extended well beyond nursing. She hosted Bible studies, taught English to immigrants, participated in AIDS ministry, volunteered at blood drives, and even traveled to Cuba for a mission trip. Her faith and compassion touched lives near and far.

Joan found joy in traveling, square dancing, and connecting with her family and friends. Her warmth and unwavering belief in serving others will be deeply missed.

Joan is survived by her children, Sue (Keith Forman), Mark (Sue Petroski), and David (Cathy Dailey-Petroski); her cherished granddaughter Sofia Petroski; and her step-grandchildren Adam, Ian, Blake, and Danny. She is reunited in Heaven with her brother Robert and all those she loved and served.

Joan's life was a testament to love, faith, and selfless giving. She will be forever in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life and a repass immediately following, will be held on Saturday, April 12th, 2025 at 11am, at Hawthorne Gospel Church, 2000 NJ-208, Hawthorne, NJ 07506. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Joan's life.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Hawthorne Gospel Church benevolent fund.