Joan Ridinger Offutt, 82, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2020 at Gilchrist Hospice, Towson, MD after a long illness. She was the beloved wife of Edward William “Bill” Offutt for nearly 50 years. Joan was a long-time, faithful, and active member of the Church of the Resurrection in Ellicott City.
Joan and her older sister, Mary Margaret, grew up in West Baltimore and shared a home with their Mom, Margaret Casey Ridinger, and extended family including Aunt Mamie and Uncle Dan. They spent lots of time with cousins who lived close-by, and if you look in the family photo albums, Joan, Mary Margaret and their Mom were always together.
Joan was proud of her extensive Catholic school education beginning with grade school at St. Cecelia’s and followed by high school at the Institute of Notre Dame (IND). She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Mt. St. Agnes College and her master’s degree from Loyola College.
Joan began her career as a first grade classroom teacher at Beechfield Elementary in Baltimore and worked there over 10 years. After marrying, she became a stay-at-home wife and Mom until her youngest child began at Resurrection – St. Paul Catholic School. She then joined the faculty there as a reading specialist and school librarian retiring in 1999. After retirement, she and Bill traveled extensively with their family and friends to locales including Alaska, Thailand, Hawaii, and the Phillipines. She and Bill were happiest when they were surrounded by family and friends. Joan particularly enjoyed hosting Sunday and holiday dinners where they opened up their home and welcomed friends old and new.
Joan is survived by her husband, Bill Offutt, sister Mary Margaret Schwaab, children Bill Offutt and wife Kim, John Offutt and wife Dale, Joanne Gales and husband Mike, Joe Offutt and wife Leah, and grandchildren Scott, Kate, and Luke Offutt and Natalie and Renee Gales as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Joan is predeceased by her mother, Margaret Ridinger, and her grandson Jake Offutt.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Joan’s name to Rettsyndrome.org, The Jake Offutt Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
Those planning to attend the viewing and/or funeral service, for the safety of all, please observe the following: - Masks must be worn at all times. - Social distancing is required both inside and outside of the church, and congregating inside or outside is not permitted before or after the service. - Families who reside in the same household may sit together in the same pew.
When it becomes safe again for large gatherings, the family plans to host a Memorial Celebration of Joan’s Life. Joan always loved a great party surrounded by loved ones, and when the time is right, we hope many of you will be able to join us.
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