Joan Gorley passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, entering into eternal rest and reuniting with the love of her life, Joseph Gorley, in Heaven, embraced by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born on May 8, 1941, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Wade and Lucy Harrington.

Joan and Joe were high school sweethearts who married on September 27, 1957, beginning a lifelong marriage grounded in deep love, steadfast faith, and devotion to family. Together, they walked hand in hand through all of life's joys and trials, trusting God through every season.  Following Joe's passing in May 2021, Joan remained faithful to the life they built together, finding peace through her faith and immense joy in the love and laughter of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her "babies," as she lovingly called them, were among God's greatest blessings in her life.

Joan will be fondly remembered for her famous fried chicken and homemade apple pies—comfort food made with love. Though she tried to teach others her recipes, no one could ever quite "make it like Mom." Her grandchildren treasure memories of standing beside her in the kitchen, making peanut butter cookies, and Christmas was always made sweeter by her homemade peanut butter fudge and divinity.

She loved watching movies, especially westerns and comedies, and seemed to know nearly every actor. As the films played, Joan would happily share stories and details about their lives—making it just as enjoyable to watch her as it was to watch the movie itself.

Joan was gifted with her hands and her heart. She spent countless hours sewing, knitting, and quilting, creating beautiful quilts that remain treasured family heirlooms. She lovingly made special Easter dresses for her granddaughters, garments now passed down to her great-granddaughters—a legacy of love stitched with care. Joan found peace and purpose in God's creation, enjoying gardening and raising chickens alongside her mother-in-law, Doris Gorley.

Survived by:

Daniel W Gorley (Polly)-Son

Tiffany G Westphal (Brian)-Granddaughter

Owen A Westphal- Great Grandson

Ruby A Westphal- Great Granddaughter

Daniel (Danny) J Gorley- Grandson

Bonnie G Dennis (Rod) - daughter

Rebecca R Gorley - Granddaughter

Chloe R Dever - Great Granddaughter

Bryson J. Sargent - Great Grandson

Brody J. Sargent - Great Grandson

She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Donald, Larry, James, Raymond, and Robert Harrington; Jean Thompson; and Helen Forest.

In keeping with Joe and Joan's wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held late spring/early summer in Weippe, Idaho, welcoming family and friends. The date