Joan B. Chessman, 86, of Woodbury Heights, NJ passed away on November 27th, 2025, surrounded by her family.

She lived life with spirit, independence, and a sense of adventure. She loved the excitement of the casino and the energy of Atlantic City, NJ. She found joy in traveling, especially by the sea. Over the years, Joan embarked on 26 cruises with destinations varying from Alaska to the Caribbean. In both her day-to-day life, and her travels, she embraced every moment with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Though adventurous, she was very much a city girl at heart. Populated areas offered her the opportunity to sample diverse cuisines - an experience she relished. She also adored animals. While cats held a special place in her heart, throughout her life, she had pets as diverse as her travels: cats, dogs, rabbits, and a skunk all shared her home.

As a mother, Joan valued family above all. She was immensely proud of her son Jason and grandson Joseph (named for her late husband). She would often fondly recall watching Jason graduate from law school. She frequently doted on Joseph – always remembering to bring him a souvenir from her numerous travels and reminding him where his hair color came from. Her love for her family was unwavering and deeply felt.

Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph, her parents, John and Margaret Denhman, and siblings Margaret “Eleanor” Oziminski and Mildred Rabar.

Left to cherish her memory are her son Jason H. Chessman and his wife Julie N. Sanders; her grandson Joseph H. Chessman; her partner of nearly 40 years, Thomas “Tom” Kendall and her stepchildren, Thomas Matthew Kendall, Jennifer Rose Kendall, and step granddaughter Liberty Beth Holly Kendall; her niece Tammy Diodati and her husband Anthony; grandnieces Krista, Kaila and Kasey (also her Goddaughter); and her nephew Jack Chessman and his wife Bernadette. She is also survived by extended family members and dear friends.

Viewing will be held on Friday, December 12th, 2025 from 9:00 am-11:00 am at McGuinness Funeral Home, 34 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096. Funeral service will begin at 11:00am followed by internment at Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro, NJ.