Obituary of Joan F. Faris

Joan Fisher Faris, 88, of Niceville, Florida passed away peacefully on June 26, 2023 after a brief illness.  She was born on June 2, 1935 (with her twin sister Jean) in Milford, Deleware to William and Mildred Fisher.  She was married to the love of her life John Faris for 48 years.

Joan grew up in Milford, Delaware, attended Milford High School, went to North Hampton Accomack School of Nursing, Hampton Virginia and then went on to Charlottesville, Virgina for Operating Room Nurse Training.  She was a licensed Practical Nurse, Operating Room Nurse, and also became a Licensed Laboratory Technician.  Joan and John met in 1971 and married on May 24, 1975.  From that time to now they were an inseperable team.  Joan followed John around the country for over 15 years of his Air Force career finally settling in Niceville, Florida in 1986 where they built their home together.  During those years Joan constantly changed jobs every time John's career moved them to a new location.  She did everything from working in hospital operating rooms to nursing in a county jail.  She finished the last 10 years of her career establishing and running a laboratory for what  is now the Emerald Coast Cancer Center.  Joan's passions were boating, cats, and dancing, not necessarily in that order.  She and John participated in local, regional, national, and world dance competitions winning Amateur Couple Titles in every level.  She was never happier than when she was flying through the air during a cabaret routine in front of an audience, lying on the couth with her cats watching the Golden Girls, and lounging on the foredeck of our boat soaking up some rays.

Joan was proceeded by her parents, William and Mildred Fisher.  She is survived by her husband, John; her twin sister, Jean Skeer; her brother, William Fisher (Phillis); daughter, Sheila Gray (Lyle Royston); grandson, Paul Wright; great-grandchildren, Keegan, Mackenzie, Brooklyn, Kaylyn, and several nieces and nephews.  Special thanks to Joan's niece, Lisa Williams who has provided invaluable support and comfort throughout this difficult time.  Also thank you to the hundrends of our dance family, military family, and our neighbors for thier gracious notes and support.  Joan is greatly missed by will be in our hearts always.l

A Celebration of life will take place at the Fort Walton Beach Elks Lodge #1795, 1335 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 on Sunday, July 30,2023 from 2-5 PM (casual dress).

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