Joan G. Stuart, age 91, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. Born on February 11, 1935, in New York City, Joan lived a life devoted to education, family, and service to others.

Joan earned her Bachelor of Education degree from Randolph–Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, Virginia, and later received her master’s degree in education from Valdosta State College. Her passion for teaching guided her throughout her career. After moving with her family to Valdosta, Georgia, in 1974, Joan dedicated 23 years as a special education teacher at Lake Park Elementary School, where she touched countless young lives with patience, kindness, and unwavering dedication.

Joan spent most of her adult life in Valdosta with her beloved husband, Virgil “Coke” Stuart, Jr., and their three children before relocating to Tampa, Florida, in 2007. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life—reading a good book, sewing, working puzzles, and, most of all, spending time with her family.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Coke Stuart, Jr., and her son, Virgil Coke Stuart, III.

She is survived by her two daughters, Sydney Rothenanger (David) of Talladega, Alabama, and Susan S. Smith of Tampa, Florida; four cherished grandchildren, Katelyn Drake (Chris) of Tampa, Florida; Sara Blaylock of West Palm Beach, Florida; Bo Blaylock of Tampa, Florida; and Ryan Rothenanger of Talladega, Alabama; and two great-grandchildren, Kinsley and Carter (Drake), who brought her immense joy.

A memorial service honoring Joan’s life will be held on May 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens, located at 3945 N Valdosta Road, Valdosta, Georgia 31602. Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home is assisting the Stuart family.