Joan Margaret Daresta

Joan M. (Cefalu) Daresta

May 28, 1943 ~ June 10, 2019 (age 76)

Joan Daresta of Kennett Square, PA passed away on June 10, 2019 at Penn Medicine Inpatient Hospice in West Chester, PA.  Born in New York City, May 28, 1943, to Marguerite and Paul Cefalu; she lived in the Chester County area for 44 years. She was the beloved wife of Frank G. Daresta; mother of Annette Guagenti, Frank P. Daresta and Brian Daresta; and sister of Annette Kopacz.

In addition to being a loving wife and mother, Joan worked the majority of her professional career as an elementary education teacher, and later as an office manager.  She was active at her church volunteering as a Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) mentor mom and assisted with the fellowship service after worship each Sunday, in addition to participating in a bible study group.  She loved cooking, baking, entertaining and reading.  Her freezer was always full of prepared meals ready for visits from friends and family. 

Notwithstanding her busy schedule, Joan was always prepared to sacrifice her personal time to help anyone in need.  She was an avid supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and appeared in a video, along with her husband, embracing her role as a legacy donor by advocating the importance of donations to help the children and their families.  She will be remembered for her sage advice, generosity of spirit, willingness to help those in need and her love of God.  Those who knew her loved her and know she is watching over them as one of God’s angels.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 22nd at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, 109 Gypsy Hill Road, Landenberg, PA. Visitation with the family begins at 10:00 AM with a memorial service at 11:00 AM. A fellowship luncheon at the church will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital c/o the Joan Daresta Memorial Fund.

http://giftfunds.stjude.org/joandaresta

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan Margaret Daresta, please visit our floral store.