Joan "Joanne" Panzenbeck

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Lucille Mullen Panzenbeck on June 3, 2026, at the remarkable age of 101, in West Sayville, NY. Joan was a loving wife to the late Maret John Panzenbeck and a cherished mother to her ten children: Maret (Gayle), Theresa Rondinaro, Daniel (Sherri), William (the late Lana), Bernard, Rosemary DeFrancisci (Joseph), Paul (Cathy), Dorothy Maritato (Peter), Timothy (Gina), and MaryJane McGrath (Thom). She was a devoted grandmother to 14 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 10 great-grandchildren, who will carry her spirit and love in their hearts.  She is predeceased by her parents and 5 siblings.

Born in Indianapolis, IN, on January 25, 1925, to Lucille and Hugh Mullen, Joan spent her early years in a loving, Catholic home before moving to Dallas, TX. After high school, she pursued her education at secretarial school, which eventually led her to New York City, where she built a career as an executive secretary. On June 19, 1949, she married her beloved Maret, and together they created a life in New York City and later settling in Sea Cliff, NY, where they nurtured their family of ten. As a centenarian who lived through the great depression, WWII, the Korean War and more, she was able to offer a unique perspective to all of us who sat with her listing our own trials and tribulations.

Joan was a passionate and hardworking individual, serving for many years as the Deputy Treasurer of the Village of Sea Cliff, until she retired in 1986. Beyond her professional achievements, she found joy in gardening, long walks on the beach, watching sunsets, visiting arboretums, always capturing family moments with her iPad, and immersing herself in historical nonfiction and memoirs. She was a devout Catholic whose faith carried her through the many seasons of her life.

As she approached her late 90s, she remained curious and engaged with the world around her, embracing new technologies like texting, facetime and zoom.  She even began to explore the potentials of AI, proving that curiosity knows no age.

Living more than a century is a profound gift, and Joan cherished each moment. Her incredible journey was marked by unwavering faith, and a spirit that embodied kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. She loved her family deeply and was always available to listen and help each of us takestock. She touched the lives of countless individuals, sharing her love and faith with everyone she met. Joan's legacy of warmth and generosity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In Lieu of flowers donations in Joanne's memory to NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness, https://namicsliny.org/ would be appreciated.

Visitation- Friday June 5, 2026 from 2:00 - 4:00 & 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at our West Sayville Funeral Home, 245 Main St.

Funeral Mass- Saturday June 6, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence RC Church, Sayville

Interment- St. Lawrence Cemetery, Sayville