Joan Harrington, of Lincoln, died March 1, 2025. Born September 16, 1931, Joan grew up southwest of Beatrice, Nebraska, and attended Beatrice High School. She attended Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she was active in Alpha Gamma Delta. She met Donald P. Harrington as a freshman at Wesleyan, and they were married in 1951. She became a teacher and taught first grade at Lincoln Public Schools for three years and Kindergarten at her church for 17 years.
Joan had three children: Nancy, John, and James Patrick. The family enjoyed many activities, including summers and winters in Estes Park, Colorado. They also enjoyed Nebraska football and followed the Huskers to Texas and Florida.
Joan enjoyed gardening and quilting, genealogy, antiquing, bridge club, and many years of coffee clubs. She was a member of P.E.O., Chapter DX, and a member of Lincoln Country Club. She and Don were both very active at Westminster Presbyterian Church and were both Deacons and Elders. A great influence on her life was the ecumenical prayer group, Micah 6:8, that met every Thursday for over 44 years.
Joan was active in mental health programs. She was on the board at the Regional Center and an Ambassador to the Foundation for Mental Health.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Donald P. Harrington, and her son, John Harrington. Survivors include Nancy (Rick) Groff, Patrick (Shannan) Harrington, grandchildren Stacey and Patrick Groff, and Ryan, Caden, and Lauren Harrington.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials are suggested to Lighthouse, 2601 N St, Lincoln, Nebraska.
Share a Memory or Condolence
Nancy and Rick, Please let me extend deepest condolences on the passing of your mother. My mother, Ruth Stephenson, just passed away in February. (Actually, I learned about your mom when I was on the Roper & Sons website.) I have fond memories, both of our parents belonging to an ongoing birthday dinner group and of spending time with the two of you when I lived in Northern California. I also fondly remember seeing your mother’s smiling face whenever I would visit the Hovland-Swanson gift shop. All good wishes for you and your family, now and always. Susan Stephenson Holder susanholdermusic@gmail.com
– Sue
Nancy and Pat so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing! Such a kind and caring Women! Prayers to the family! Many good memories!
– Gil Goldsmith
Joann was my aunt, I’m sorry to hear of her passing.
– Kristy Thober
I knew of Jo thru my parents, Mark and Donna Martin. Very good friends I’m sorry for your loss
– Kristy Martin McCarter
I have many fond memories of Jo. She was so kind and fun. She was good friends with my Mother Sally Raglin Marshall. I send to the entire family my deepest condolences, and prayers.
– Ann Raglin Meints
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