Joan Elaine Rohrer, 82, of Nottingham, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026. Born in Lancaster on January 31, 1944, she was the daughter of the late Ardelle Virginia Stuart (née Martin) and Joseph Warren Stuart, and the wife of Robert Ellis Rohrer, Sr.   

A lifelong educator, Joan dedicated her career to shaping young minds, teaching over 1,000 students in the Oxford Area School District, as well as in Lancaster and Quarryville. Her passion for learning extended far beyond the classroom—she was a graduate of Millersville State College (now Millersville University) and also studied at Temple University. A true lifelong learner, she continued her education through numerous Penn State Extension courses.  

Joan was committed to mentoring young women and was known for her kindness, wisdom, and encouragement. She found great joy in reading, playing the piano, and collecting antiques. She had a special love for flowers and took pride in creating beauty in both her home and garden.   

Joan was a proud member of the Sappony Indian Tribe and carried an appreciation for heritage, community, and tradition throughout her life. Gifted musically, she was an accomplished singer who performed for many years as part of a trio, sharing her love of music with all who heard her.   

Joan also had a gift for hospitality. Alongside her beloved husband Bob, she hosted memorable Christmas open houses and gatherings filled with warmth, creativity, and joy. Their home became a place of celebration, often featuring unique entertainment such as Revolutionary War reenactors, storytellers, maypole dances, and even visits from a sheriff’s deputy and K-9 companion.   

Her interests and talents were wide-ranging. Joan was an award-winning cook, having won a national cooking competition through Farm Wife News. She also contributed her talents as a writer, developing Sunday school curriculum for elementary grades for a national publishing company.   

Joan enjoyed traveling and created lasting memories during visits to Colonial Williamsburg, Ocean City, Maryland, the Paradise Hunting Club in Tioga County, and abroad in Scotland and Ireland.   

Dedicated to her community, Joan served as an auditor and Republican committee woman for West Nottingham Township, demonstrating her commitment to civic engagement and public service.   

Above all else, Joan treasured her family. She delighted in her grandchildren, making each one feel uniquely loved and special. She could often be found cheering them on at sporting events, attending concerts, supporting 4-H activities, or creating cherished holiday crafts together.   

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her brother, John Walter Stuart.   

She is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Ellis Rohrer, Sr.; her children, Robert Ellis Rohrer, Jr. and his wife Cathy, Tiffany Laura Bell and her husband David, and Ryan Edward Rohrer and his wife Christy; her cherished grandchildren, Brianna Rohrer, Kaitlin (Bell) Platter and her husband Zane, Meghan Rohrer, David Bell, Edward Rohrer, Ellis Rohrer, Henry Rohrer, Ruby Rohrer, and Magdalena Rohrer; her great-grandson, Jase Platter; and many extended family members and dear friends. 

A Celebration of Joan’s Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:30 AM at Grace Bible Chapel, 1949 Joseph Biggs Memorial Highway, Rising Sun, Maryland. Family and friends are invited to gather beginning at 10:30 AM.