Joan Marie Sheldon

Joan Marie Sheldon of Albany, New York, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026. She was a beloved sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Joan was born on August 13, 1938, in Chatham, New York to the late Robert Wesley and Dorothy Louise Sheldon. Joan found her greatest joy in her family and her faith as a devoted member of Bethany Baptist Church. She touched the lives of many through her warmth, compassion, and generosity. Her love was often shared through her much-requested pies and pound cakes.

Joan loved spending time with friends and family at the Saratoga Racetrack and was an avid bowler. She shared her love of bowling with her nieces and nephews. She even signed them up for leagues and accompanied them to their matches. She was a devoted and loving auntie who took pride in creating memories.

She was a graduate of Chatham Central High School and dedicated 45 years of service to the New York State Department of Health, retiring as a Senior Histology Technician. Her long career in laboratory science reflected her exceptional abilities and commitment to her work.

Joan was one of eight children born into the Sheldon family. Like her sisters, she traveled from the family farm in Chatham to Albany aboard the Beeliner to pursue a career as a civil servant with New York State. Together, the Sheldon sisters devoted more than two centuries of combined service to the state, a remarkable testament to their work ethic and dedication.

Joan is survived by her two sisters: Beverly J. Norwood and Kathleen J. Kruzinski (Robert). She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Gail Hammond (Michael Walters), Kimberly Norwood (Cozet Parker), Earl Brown Jr., and Robert Corey Haith (Jennifer), as well as cousins and a host of very dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert Wesley and Dorothy Louise Sheldon; her siblings, Marlene Hammond, Dorothy Roberta Haith, Claudia Pugh, Robert Wesley Sheldon Jr., and Sharon Brown; and her nephew, Rodney Brown.

Services will be held on Saturday, October 31 at Bethany Baptist Church, 59-65 Second Street in Albany, NY. Calling hours will be held from 10:00-11:00AM. Funeral Services will follow at 11:00AM. The interment will be held on a later date.

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