Joan F Eckert

Joan F. Eckert, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, in her lifelong hometown of Hamilton, Ohio, at the age of 91. Born on July 11, 1934, Joan was the youngest of eight children in the Herbers family, cherished by her parents, Harry and Frances (Nee Mengelkamp) Herbers.

Prior to marrying, Joseph W. Eckert Sr., Joan established a career at the phone company. Their love story, one woven through dance and laughter, began at a dance studio where they shared their passion for music and movement. They were united in marriage on September 10, 1960, creating a warm and loving home where their four children—Joseph Jr., James, John, and Mary Jo —would thrive.

Joan's heart was vast, filled with love and compassion not only for her family but also for the many beloved animals that graced her life. She reveled in the moments spent surrounded by her family, particularly cherishing outings to the Butler County Fair for games and church festivals. A true card enthusiast, Joan enjoyed her card games with her group of friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph W. Eckert Sr., parents: Harry and Frances (nee Mengelkamp) Herbers and siblings: Leroy, Julia, Dorothy, Rita, Lucille, Mary, and Paul.

Joan's joyous spirit will also live on through her children: Joseph Jr. (Pamela Kariofiles), James (Nancy), John (Linda), and Mary Jo (Randy Campbell) Eckert; grandchildren: Andrea (John L. Greer IV) Shanks, Peter (Laura) Kariofiles, Zachary (Samantha), Noah (Ashley), Ashley (Michael Wiebell), and Christopher (Mary) Eckert, along with her great-grandchildren Charlotte Shanks, Josie & Reese Kariofiles, and Theodore Eckert and many nieces and nephews.

In life, Joan found joy in the simple pleasures, whether it was her anticipation of scratch-off tickets or the thrill of a casino game. She will be profoundly missed by all whose lives she touched.

Visiting hours will be held on January 22, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Michael J. Colligan Lodge, located at 20 New London Rd, Hamilton, OH. A Mass celebrating her life will take place the following day, January 23, 2026, at 9:30 AM at St. Peter in Chains Catholic Church at 382 Liberty Ave, Hamilton, OH. Following the service, a graveside service will be conducted at St. Stephens Catholic Cemetery at 1314 Greenwood Ave, Hamilton, OH, starting at 10:45 AM.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Childrens Hospital or Butler County Humane Society.

As we gather to honor Joan’s vibrant spirit, let us remember her kindness, her laughter, and her immense love for her family, which will forever live on in our hearts.