Joan Durham, retired nurse

Joan Durham of Milton passed away Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025. Joan was born Oct. 29, 1947, at Milford Memorial Hospital, daughter of Paul and Eldora Moore Simmons.

Joan was a 1965 graduate of Milton High School in Milton and a 1968 graduate of Milford Hospital School of Nursing. Joan retired from Bayhealth Medical Center in 2009. She enjoyed freshwater fishing, bowling, reading, and vacations on Lake Norman, N.C., with members of her family.

Joan is survived by her husband, Chester Kopelen; her son, Jeff Durham; her sister, Kay (Jim) Kauffman; two nephews and their wives; two great-nephews; one great-niece, as well as a stepdaughter and a stepson.

Per Joan's request, funeral services will be private.

Donations in her memory may be made to the American Heart Association, SPCA, or charity of choice.