Joan Baugher

Joan Marie Rice Baugher, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, Aunt and friend, passed away on August 31, 2023, in Highland, MD, after a long battle with cancer. Born on November 22, 1935, in Cumberland, MD, Joan was the beloved daughter of Lewis Martin Rice and Marie Eyler Rice and wife to the late Irving Bosley "Bo" Baugher. 

Following her 1954 graduation from Allegheny High School in Cumberland, MD, Joan continued her education at the University of Maryland, School of Nursing in Baltimore, MD, graduating in 1956.  She later proudly earned a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from Notre Dame of Maryland University, Baltimore, MD in 1987. Her dedication to her profession was evident in her unwavering commitment to nursing for over 60 years in various capacities. Her career was a testament to her compassionate spirit and her sincere desire to help others.

Beyond her professional life, Joan was deeply involved in her community. She notably supported the Stephens Ministry and Congregational Care teams at her church, providing comfort and guidance to those in need. Joan was also a Master Gardener, a title she wore with pride. Her love for growing lavender was known to all who knew her. Joan loved music and singing with the National Christian Choir was a joyous time in her life.

Joan was a passionate writer, often sharing her wisdom and love of country through her words. But above all, Joan's greatest interest was her family. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her children and grandchildren, sharing in their successes and supporting them in their endeavors.

Joan is survived by her children and their spouses, Julie and Frank McQuilkin, Mike and Georgine Baugher, Cindy and Don Lucas, and Beth and Brad Kay. She was a proud grandmother to Jimmy McQuilkin and his wife Heather, and their son Alden; Brett McQuilkin and his wife Amanda, and their children, Collins and Brooks; Kelly McQuilkin; Christopher and Matthew Baugher; Lee Lucas; Glenn Lucas and his wife Natalie; Jenny Hulett and her husband Tim; and Nicole Sparrow and her husband Dan. She is also survived by nephews David, Jeff and Andy Hooten and their families, nephew Briton Rice and niece Michelle Rogers and her family.

Joan's life was a testament to the power of love, faith in Christ, and intelligence. She lived her life with grace, strength, and an unwavering commitment to her family and her faith. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, both personally and professionally, and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to House of Hope in memory of Joan: info@houseofhopemaryland.org.

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