Joanne Brodow

Joanne Brodow, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on June 18, 1937, in Newark, NJ, Joanne was known for her strong work ethic and her caring and loving nature that touched the lives of many.

For years, she dedicated herself to the Bloomfield Board of Education as an administrative assistant, where her commitment to education and community service shone brightly. Joanne was proud to contribute to the growth and development of the children within her community, reminding each one of them of their unique potential.

Joanne loved her home in Bloomfield, where she was surrounded by great friends who became like family to her. She immersed herself in the joys of life, finding fulfillment in her passions for interior decorating and gardening. Though she may not have played sports herself, her enthusiastic spirit could be felt in her role as an avid spectator, cheering passionately for her favorite teams in softball, football, tennis, and ice skating.

Above all, Joanne’s pride and joy came from her family. She leaves behind her loving daughters, Sue Vogel (Ben Johnson) and Linda Taylor (Randy), who were always inspired by her strength and determination. As a grandmother, she held an especially close bond with Rachel W. Schermick (Casey), her granddaughter, and was overjoyed to see the light of her life reflected in her great-granddaughter, Anja Mae Schermick. Joanne's heart swelled with pride at the accomplishments of her family, lighting up her room with love and laughter.

Joanne is also survived by her beloved sister, Arline J. Roberts, and cherished nieces, Patti Prieto Harder and Cathy Wallick, as well as the Tonjes Family, who were long-time family friends that enriched her life with unforgettable memories.

Reunited in peace, Joanne now joins her late husband, Daniel S. Brodow, who passed away in 1990, and her parents, Arthur and Ethel Haster. Though they are no longer with us, their memories and legacies carry on through the love they shared and the family bonds they helped form.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Joanne's life during a visitation service on May 1, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Halpin-Bitecola-Brookdale Funeral & Cremation Services, located in Bloomfield, NJ. A Mass will take place the following day, May 2, 2025, at 9:30 AM at Saint Thomas the Apostle Church, with interment to follow at 11:00 AM at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Montclair, NJ.

Joanne Brodow’s spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will not be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in Joanne's name can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease. michaeljfox.org