Joan Marie (Christopher) Young, 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday,
May 24, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on September 13, 1941, in
Belleville to Joseph and Dorothy Christopher, Joan was raised in Columbia,
where she developed the strong values of faith, family, and kindness that
guided her throughout her life.

Joan graduated from St. Teresa’s Academy and went on to attend the
University of Illinois. She began her career as a first-grade teacher, a role
perfectly suited to her gentle spirit and caring nature, before dedicating
herself fully to raising her family following the birth of her first child, Jack.
She was the devoted wife of William “Bill” Young for 62 wonderful years.
Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter, and family. Joan was
preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill, in October 2025.

She was a loving and proud mother to Jack, Paul, Ann, and Jay, and her
greatest joy came from caring for and spending time with her family. Joan
loved deeply and expressed that love through countless thoughtful projects
and traditions that became treasured lifelong memories for those she loved.
Whether she was remodeling a room, carefully hanging pictures in the
homes of her children, planning family gatherings, or creating something
special just because, Joan had a gift for making people feel loved and
cared for.

She found joy in reading, decorating, and spending time with her sister
during their monthly lunches and with her nieces during annual shopping
trips — traditions she cherished dearly. Joan also had a wonderfully
infectious laugh and a quick sense of humor. She could say or do
something unexpectedly funny and then laugh even harder herself, bringing
joy and lightness to everyone around her.

Joan will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, creativity, humor, and
unwavering love for her family. Her presence filled every room with comfort
and laughter, and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of all
who knew and loved her.

She leaves behind a family who adored her and who will forever carry her
love with them.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the
Society of St. Vincent de Paul, an organization closely supported by her
home parish and one that was meaningful to Joan and her family.