Joan Ann Pickett

Joan Ann Pickett, lovingly known as Joanna, passed away at her home in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on October 24, 2026. She was born on December 6, 1934, in Wilkes-Barre, where her life began and where she remained deeply rooted. She will be remembered as a simple but feisty woman whose strength and spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew and loved her.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Pickett, who died in 1995. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Helen Kurkowski Washick; her son, Edward Pickett Jr.; her daughter, Sharon Kay Balz; and her twin brother, Jack Washick.

She is survived by her son, Kyle Pickett, and her daughter, Tina McKeown. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Jason McKeown Sr., Anna Vezo and her husband, Nick, Robert Balz, Josh Balz, and Liz Georgetti and her husband, Ryan. Her family circle continued through the next generation with her great-grandson, Jason McKeown Jr., and her great-granddaughter, Noelle Vezo.

Joan’s life was centered on family, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who shared in her love, her strength, and her spirited nature. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Private funeral services were held by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.