Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

November 16, 2024

Nancy Joan Zehner Freshcorn
May 5, 1928 – November 16, 2024

Nancy Joan Zehner Freshcorn, lovingly known as Joan, passed away peacefully at the age of 96, surrounded by her family and the dedicated caregivers of Southminster Retirement Community in Charlotte, NC, where she lived for over 15 years. In her later years, Joan became a spirited presence at Southminster’s Embrace Health extended care program, earning the affectionate nickname “Feisty Freshcorn.” Her quick wit, humor, and determination were hallmarks of her personality, endearing her to staff and residents alike.

Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Harold L. Freshcorn; her son, Keith A. Freshcorn; her grandson, Benjamin P. Kovolsky; and her infant daughter, Anne Freshcorn. She is survived by her five devoted children: Jennifer Helms (Beaufort, SC), Scott Freshcorn and wife Deborah (Laurinburg, NC), Susan “Peach” Freshcorn (Charlotte, NC), Donna Bullard (Matthews, NC), Lisa Dever and husband Tom (Charlotte, NC), and Barbara Freshcorn (Matthews, NC), wife of her late son Keith. Joan also leaves behind 14 adoring grandchildren: Kelly, Stacy, April, Julia, Jessica, Amanda, Emily, Lauren, Jason, Matthew, Holly, Lynne, Adam, and Joli who in turn have provided 25 cherished great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by numerous nieces and nephews spanning the eastern United States.

Born on May 5, 1928, in Zelienople, PA, Joan’s life was a testament to hard work, resilience, and devotion to her family. She married her high school sweetheart, Harold Freshcorn, the very day they graduated, embarking on a lifetime of love and partnership. Together, they raised six children, creating a home filled with laughter, activity, and the aromas of Harold’s garden harvests, which Joan skillfully preserved by canning dozens of quarts of fruits and vegetables to last throughout the year. Her legendary tomato juice was a favorite of family and friends, perfect for everything from spaghetti dinners to Bloody Marys.

Joan had a green thumb of her own, cultivating vibrant flower gardens that brought beauty and life to her home. Fresh bouquets were always a centerpiece, reflecting her love of nature and her knack for finding joy in simple pleasures. A proud member of various garden clubs, Joan’s passion for plants extended to teaching her children and grandchildren the art of gardening and the value of nurturing something to life.

Beyond her love for gardening, Joan’s sense of humor was her superpower. She had a knack for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories, always ready with a clever remark or a playful tease. Her feistiness was matched only by her generosity, as she welcomed family and friends into her home with open arms and an open heart. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial service will be held at Southminster Community, 8919 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28210 on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 3:00 PM with a celebration of life to follow.   The service will be held in the Shelton Room on the main floor.  

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Southminster Embrace Healthcare or VIA Health Partners of Charlotte… or simply plant something beautiful in Joan’s memory and share a story that makes you laugh—she would have loved that.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.