Joan Alston Obituary

Joan McClurkin - Alston

Joan M. Alston, 93 years old, of Exton, Pennsylvania, formerly of Findlay, passed away Friday, May 23, 2025, at Bryn Mawr Hospital in Bryn Mawr. She is survived by her husband, Robert Paul Alston. She is also survived by two sons, Philip James (Sally) McClurkin and Richard "Chip" (Kelley) McClurkin (from her marriage to Phil McClurkin); granddaughter, Marley; sister-in-law, Theresa Nassar; brother-in-law, Richard Morris; and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by daughter, Melanie Angela McClurkin; brother, Alvin Nassar; and sister, Sylvia Morris.

Born July 30, 1931, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late James Nassar and Grace Mary (Obide) Nassar. Joan spent her childhood in Utica and Elmira, New York.

She began her career partnering with her family at T&J Foods in Elmira. Joan later found her calling in social work and dedicated much of her life to serving others. Life had taken her to Ohio, where she worked for PSA 3 Agency on Aging in various roles, eventually serving as director.

Joan was the embodiment of a fierce spirit from the very start - fending off neighborhood bullies as a child and later, rising to her feet for justice time and again, marching for human rights until just weeks before her passing. She was always on the ready with a picket sign for any cause, stashed in the trunk of her car. At 89 years young, Joan was the sole caretaker for her daughter and her 18-month battle with cancer. She attacked all things in life with that same fierce passion. Joan loved spending time with family, skiing, and traveling and appreciated and supported the arts in all forms.

Services and interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Planned Parenthood or Bryn Mawr Hospital.