Joan E. Whitwell

Joan Eicker “Joni” Whitwell, 96, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025 in Bryn Mawr, PA. She was born June 17, 1929 in Wollaston, MA to Nathalie Hett and Carl Gustav Eicker. She liked telling people her birthday is easy to remember because June 17th is Bunker Hill Day.

Joni is survived by her four children and their spouses, Susan Ruth Whitwell of Williamsburg, VA; George Edward and Mary Barta Whitwell of Nags Head, NC; John Sanford and Donna Drexler Whitwell of Ashburn, VA; and Amy Whitwell and Eric Matthew Schreiber, of Wayne, PA. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Sanford “Sandy” MacCallum Whitwell, her brothers, Carl Walter and Robert Bradley Eicker, and two grandchildren, Max Whitwell and Courtney Schreiber.

Joni earned a BA in Public Relations from Boston University. She and Sandy met in NYC and were married on July 7, 1951. They had several homes in Fairfield, CT over more than 40 years, where they lovingly raised their four children. They relocated to Williamsburg, VA in 1994, where they hosted many family gatherings, especially Thanksgivings, as well as sailing with her grandchildren.

Joni loved the outdoors, walking, playing tennis and golf, swimming, skiing and bicycling. She loved time with friends, playing bridge, painting watercolors, and being near the water.

Joni was an avid reader, particularly keen on U.S. revolutionary history. Over the years, she regularly volunteered helping children in need, often teaching reading. Above all, she enjoyed being with her family, especially her grandchildren, and was delighted to be a great grandmother. Family was always first for her, and she was especially generous with her time and love.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 17, at Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA at 2 p.m. Mrs.Whitwell’s family will receive friends 1pm - 2pm  prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, t2t.org, would be appreciated.