Joan Marian Ferro (née Dunham, formerly Grimm), the first born daughter of Frank and Eunice (née Carrico) Dunham, was born on November 30, 1931, in St. Louis, Missouri, and passed away on April 19, 2026, at the age of 94.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Roy Ferro; former husband, Gene Grimm; son, David Grimm; daughter, Susan Reznicek (née Grimm, formerly Hager); brother, David Dunham; and sister, Carol Horrell (née Dunham).

Joan will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, especially her children, Jeffrey Grimm, Jeanne Crotser, Janet Chrun (Gary), Larry Ferro (Beverly), and Steve Ferro (Gig); along with her 12 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Joan graduated from Southwest High School in St. Louis, Harris Teachers College, and Washington University with a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. As an energetic, intelligent, patriotic, and creative educator, Joan joyfully shared her talents, spirit, and love working with children throughout her life. She taught Sunday school, owned and operated day care centers, organized neighborhood Fourth of July parades and church youth events, and she just may have seen you through the Magic Mirror as “Miss Joan” on KTVI’s Romper Room in 1962!

She effortlessly taught many how to play "Heart and Soul" on the piano, thematically crafted decorations for holidays and events, personalized photo albums and birthday calendars, and delightfully hosted some unforgettable summer “staycation” adventures for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joan cherished large family gatherings, joyously serving unconditional love, laughter, games, spirited political banter, beautiful dessert buffets, homemade almond roca gifts, and, occasionally, the best frozen peaches. So many fond memories of these events will live in our hearts forever.

For many years, Joan was an usher at the Fox Theatre and an active member of several organizations, including Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Young Republicans, Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), and Friendship Force International. Through Friendship Force, she and Roy enjoyed hosting and being hosted by new friends around the world. Their first of many trips abroad was to Japan in 1992. Joan’s love of travel and the detailed stories she shared inspired an adventurous spirit in many members of her family that continues today. Beyond travel, she also enjoyed speed-reading, pontooning on Lake St. Louis, participating in bridge groups, and staying in touch with dear friends far and near.

Raised in the church, Joan remained an active member of her faith community throughout her life. She joyfully served as a worship service greeter, usher, and member on many committees. At Dardenne Presbyterian Church, Joan was involved with the Women’s Presbyterian Club and volunteered many hours at the Mary Martha Thrift Store, Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Ministry, and the annual Advent by Candlelight celebration (sometimes even setting two tablescapes!). With an evangelistic heart and a lifelong passion for teaching, Joan was always ready to share God’s love and His Word wherever she could. We know her place with God is fulfilled.

Joan chose to donate her body to the Washington University School of Medicine — a fitting final contribution after a lifetime dedicated to service and education.

Joan’s Celebration for the Gift of Life will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. and the service immediately following at 11:00 a.m.

The Rock Church at Dardenne Presbyterian

7400 South Outer 364

Dardenne Prairie, Missouri 63368

Friends and family express sincere gratitude to the staff of StoneBridge Senior Living in Hermann, Missouri and St. Croix Hospice for their time, care, and commitment in tending to those in need.