Nancy J. Whalen

Nancy J. “JoAnn” Whalen, 85, of New Enterprise, a guest of Homewood at Martinsburg, went home to be with the Lord early Saturday morning, Aug. 26, 2023, at the home.

She was born May 2, 1938, in rural Martinsburg, a daughter of the late Charles H. and Erma G. (Hess) Criswell. On Oct. 7, 1962, she married Pastor Bruce D. Whalen at Salem United Church of Christ, rural Martinsburg. He preceded her in death Nov. 7, 2018, after 56 years of marriage.

She is survived by four children: David B. Whalen (Monica) of Ozark, Alabama, Mark A. Whalen, of New Enterprise, Daniel P. Whalen, of Hollidaysburg, and Karen E. Walker (Rich) of Williamsburg; four grandchildren: Alura Cortez Whalen, Brian Whalen, Amy Lynn (Roy), and Alissa Walker; a great-granddaughter, Ceceila Joan Lynn; and numerous extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by five sisters: Alberta J. McClain, Pauline Brumbaugh, Edith N. Sollenberger, Dorothy A. Kauffman, and Virginia M. Weller; and four brothers: Donald L., Samuel A., Robert C., and Charles L. “Junior” Criswell.

JoAnn was a 1957 graduate of Morrisons Cove High School. She was a homemaker for 56 years and loved raising her children. JoAnn joyfully watched as her children started families of their own.

She was a member of Mt. Pleasant Church, rural Martinsburg. JoAnn loved spending time with her family, especially all of her grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, canning fruits and vegetables, and cooking. She also enjoyed bowling, quilting, and completing puzzles.

Friends will be received from 5 until 7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, at Mt. Pleasant Church, 705 Auction Road, Martinsburg, PA 16662, where a celebration of life service will be held at 7 p.m. Pastor Kenneth Downs will be officiating. Private internment will be held at Mt. Pleasant Church Cemetery, rural Martinsburg.

The family prefers memorial contributions be given to Mt. Pleasant Church, 705 Auction Road, Martinsburg, PA 16662.

Arrangements by John K. Bolger Funeral Home, Inc., Martinsburg, (www.bolgerfuneralhome.com)