Joan Desiderio, enjoyed her family

Joan Desiderio, 81, of Millsboro, formerly of Lester, Pa., passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, at her home.

She was born in Lester, July 13, 1937, daughter of the late Albert and Mary (Clay) Barr.  She served as a nanny for several years before her retirement.

Joan enjoyed spending time with her family, taking care of her home and watching the birds from her window.  She also enjoyed going to the casino, yard sales, family vacations and spending time on the pontoon boat.    

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, George and John Barr; two sisters, Lois Harold and Mary Ramos; and her canine companion, Sasha.  She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Anthony Desiderio Sr.; three children, Anthony Desiderio Jr. (Lisa) of Garnet Valley, Pa., Michele Desiderio (Mark Hecksher) of Lester, and John Desiderio (Heather) of Greenwood; five grandsons, Anthony Desiderio III (Karissa), Christopher Desiderio (Katelyn), Nicholas Desiderio (Kim Nowak), Joshua Desiderio and Zachary Desiderio; and two great-grandsons, Anthony Desiderio IV and Ashton Desiderio.  Joan is also survived by two brothers, Charles Barr (Carol) of Lester and Robert Barr (Sally) of New Castle; a sister, Janice Turnier of Ridley, Pa.; and Joan’s faithful canine companion, Bella.

A funeral service will be held at noon, Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, where friends may call after 11 a.m.  Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Joan’s name to Bayhealth Cancer Center, 640 South State St., Dover, DE 19901. 

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com