Joan Yafonaro

A Toast to Joan.

Joan Yafonaro, age 87, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering positivity. Known affectionately as “Gram” by not just her grandchildren, but also by many of their friends, Joan had a way of making everyone feel like family.

Beloved wife of Anthony C.; loving mother of Lori G. Jerele (Al), Carl S. Salupo (the late Darlene), the late Raymond V. Salupo (Stephanie Maraldo-Carey), and Nicholas Salupo (Kathy); cherished gram of Ryan Jerele (Amanda), Jennifer Tabar (Jason), Samuel Salupo, Dominic Salupo, Cecilia Salupo, Mia Salupo, Oliva, Adam, and Michael Clymer; great grandmother of Alexa, Elijah, Luca, and Fiona; dear sister to the late Jean Wilson and the late Bobby Bowling (the late Fred); aunt and great aunt of many.

Even as she faced health challenges later in life, Joan remained a bright light—always positive, always grateful, and always ready with a smile. Before her health issues, she was known to light up any dance floor, her joy for life radiating through every step. She had a playful spirit, loving nothing more than gathering for a good game night—whether it was cards, board games, or something she made up on the spot just to keep the laughter going.

Joan’s sense of humor was one of a kind. She could deliver a well-timed joke with a twinkle in her eye, always managing to catch you off guard in the best way. It was part of her charm—equal parts classy and cheeky—and it brought endless laughter to those lucky enough to hear them.

Her greatest joy came from simply being surrounded by the people she loved most. She cherished her children, adored her grandchildren, and beamed with pride at every moment spent with her great-grandchildren.

Joan's life was a testament to the power of kindness, connection, and joy. She will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her, but her spirit will continue to shine in every memory, every laugh, and every story told around the table.

Her family invites all who knew and loved her to celebrate her remarkable life.

Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 W. AURORA RD. (RTE. 82), SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 2025 FROM  10-1 PM. Funeral Service to celebrate Joan’s life will be held Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 1PM at the funeral home. Interment All Saints Cemetery, Northfield. After burial, all are welcome to join us in celebrating the life of Joan with food, wine, and memories from 3-7 PM at Lake Forest Country Club, 100 Lake Forest Drive, Hudson, OH.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan Yafonaro, please visit our floral store.