Joanne M. Reaffel

Joanne M. Reaffel, 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Wesley Health Care Center.

Born in Plattsburgh, New York, Joanne was the daughter of Howard LeRoy Reaffel ("Roy") and Eulee Reaffel. At the age of 17, she entered the convent, dedicating 17 years to a life of service before pursuing a Master’s in Social Work from Hunter College in New York City.

Joanne had a long and impactful career in social work, focusing on family counseling, foster care, and nursery school education in New York City. She later moved to Vermont, where she continued her work in Brandon and Rutland. In 1982, Joanne relocated to Bloomingdale, New York, where she served at the Sunmount Developmental Center and the Center for Intensive Treatment in Tupper Lake. She lived in Bloomingdale for 20 years before retiring to Hartford, New York, in 2004.

In 2015, Joanne and her close friend of many years, Sandy Smith, moved to Queensbury, New York. Joanne found joy in simple pleasures, including swimming, gardening, and reading. Her kindness and dedication to helping others left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Joanne selflessly chose to donate her body to Albany Medical College, though they were unable to accept her gift due to the holiday closure.

She is survived by her nieces, Lisa Hoitt and Betsy Merlow, as well as her grandnieces and grandnephew.

Joanne was predeceased by her beloved sister, Jean Doyle.

In accordance with Joanne’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or services at this time. Interment will take place in the spring at the convenience of her family.

Arrangements are under the care of Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joanne’s memory may be made to Community Hospice, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

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