Joan Lynn Gillen
July 19, 1947 - October 1, 2025
Joan Lynn Gillen, age 78, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
Born in Wilmington, DE, on July 19, 1947, she was a daughter of the late William and Florence (Rice) Stephens. Joan was a graduate of Brandywine High School. She began working for DuPont Co. before embarking on her career with Christina School District as their benefits coordinator and human resources.
Joan loved dotting on her pets and knitting pieces for her family and friends. She enjoyed being in the comfort of her home.
The Gillen family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful and compassionate staff at AccentCare Hospice.
Joan is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Michael William Gillen; daughter, Jill Henebry (Craig); and siblings, William Stephens and Nancy Umpstead.
All services will be held privately.
Jeanne McCloskey
I’m so sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. Enjoyed living near her & Mike and working with her at Christina School District. Prayers to Mike & her daughter 🙏
Jeanne McCloskey
Linda and Bill Maslanka
We are so sorry for your loss. Joan was a caring friend who truly loved her family and dogs. I remember how much she enjoyed shopping and baking and sharing her home with friends. She will be missed, but we are glad to know she is at peace now. We wish her family many loving memories of good times together.
Kerry McGinnis
So very sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. Enjoyed working with Joan at Christina school district as well as traveling to Nora Robert’s book signings, going to see Harry Potter movies with the Griffindor scarves she made us and traveling to Dresden to make baskets at the Longaberger basket company. Hugs and prayers to Jill, Mike and family.
Dana Crumlish
So sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. I have so many memories of working with Joan at CSD, we shared many laughs when they moved her office into the one with her own private restroom(the one everyone used 😂) you are all in my prayers🙏🏻