Joan Adams Ecklar

Joan Adams Ecklar, a beloved matriarch, departed this earthly realm on April 8, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospice in Edgewood, Kentucky at the age of 89. Born on November 9, 1935, in Burlington, Kentucky, Joan lived a life rich with love, compassion, and a steadfast faith that guided her through all her days.

Joan was known for her remarkable career, which began as a telephone switchboard operator in Cincinnati, Ohio. She then became a familiar face as a cashier at KFC in Dry Ridge, Kentucky, and later served as a shoe clerk for Wal-Mart in Williamstown, Kentucky. These roles allowed her to connect with countless individuals, showcasing her warm smile and kind spirit.

Education was dearly important to Joan; she graduated from Holmes High School in 1954, laying the foundation for the adventures of life that awaited her. Throughout her journey, she held fast to her values, displaying a God-loving personality that resonated with all who knew her. Joan was deeply religious, dedicated to her church, and cherished the daily ritual of reading the Bible, which brought her peace and solace.

Family and friends will fondly remember holiday meals at Joan’s table, where she shined as a fabulous cook. Her culinary talents were an extension of her heart, bringing people together during special moments filled with laughter and love. A devoted mother and grandmother, she embraced every opportunity to be with her children and grandchildren, showering them with affection and joy while also delighting in the company of her beloved cat, Calico.

In her leisure time, Joan found pleasure in working in her vegetable and flower garden, nurturing the beauty of nature with the same care she extended to her family. A die-hard fan of UK Basketball and captivating soap operas, she took joy in the simple pleasures of life, always ready to share a laugh or a story.

Joan leaves behind her cherished family: daughters Melissa (Brent) Adams and Tricia Jones; sons Donald R. (Debra) Ecklar, Jr., Danny "Joe" Ecklar, David (Julie) Ecklar, and Douglas Ecklar; stepson Donald Lee Ecklar, nephew, Ryan Eckler, and niece, Elizabeth (Frank) Nussbaum. Her legacy continues through her seven beloved grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who will carry her warmth and spirit forward.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Stella Adams, who undoubtedly welcomed her into their embrace with open arms.

The services celebrating Joan's life will be held at Corinth Baptist Church in Corinth, Kentucky, with visitation taking place on April 15, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by her funeral service beginning at 12:00 PM.  Pastor Jim Sears will be officiating services.  Burial will follow in the Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Erlanger, KY.  Memorials are suggested to the Corinth Baptist Church, 235 Church St., Corinth, KY 41010.

As we remember Joan, let us honor her rich legacy of love, faith, and kindness. She was a remarkable woman whose presence illuminated the lives of those she touched, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.