Joanne Goer Obituary

Obituary of Joanne Goer

Joanne Goer (née DeBiasse), a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at Pine Acres in Madison on Friday, July 25, 2025, just one day after celebrating her 80th birthday. Her life was a testament to compassion, dedication and love, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Joanne is survived by her daughter, Christine Goer (Bruce); two grandchildren, AJ Ardito (Jin) & Lauren Ardito (Tom); two great-grandchildren, Anthony & James Ardito; her nieces and nephews, Pat DeBiasse III (Kim), Dawn DeBiasse Neville, Gary DeBiasse; and many other extended family members & friends.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Francine Goer-Ardito; one sister, Margaret Rose DeBiasse-Detieue; and two brothers, Pat DeBiasse, Jr. and Frederick Debiasse; and several extended family members and dear friends.

Born in Morristown on July 24, 1945, to the late Pasquale DeBiasse and Francis Napolitano, Joanne was raised in Madison alongside her three siblings. She graduated from Madison High School and went on to earn her master's degree in psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University, a pursuit that would shape her lifelong commitment to helping others.

Joanne dedicated her career to the mental health field, serving as the Director of Integrated and Addiction Services at the Pequannock Valley Mental Health Center. Her pioneering work at the NewBridge Center, where she was honored for her efforts in merging the treatment of mental illness and substance abuse, was a reflection of her unwavering belief in the potential for recovery and wellness. Celebrating a remarkable 25 years at NewBridge, Joanne touched countless lives, guiding many on their journeys to healing.

Family was the cornerstone of Joanne's life. She took immense pride in her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Her home, which she lovingly designed with an architect, was a sanctuary filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her culinary creations. A superb cook, Joanne built a chef's kitchen to host family gatherings and create unforgettable meals for her loved ones.

An avid gardener, Joanne found joy in nurturing her plants, and her love for animals, especially her cherished cats, reflected her kind-hearted nature. She was also an avid reader, often found at the library, immersing herself in literature.

Joanne's legacy is one of kindness and service. She helped countless individuals throughout her life, leaving the world a better place through her good works and compassionate spirit. Her lifelong friendships, many dating back to high school, are a testament to her loyalty and the deep connections she fostered.

Joanne will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her remarkable legacy of love and service will continue to inspire future generations.

In honor of Joanne's life, relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the visitation to be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. held at the funeral home.

Interment will follow at St. Vincent's Cemetery, Madison.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests charitable contributions in Joanne and Francine's memory to the Stiff Person Syndrome Research Foundation (SPSRF).