OBITUARY
Joan Keville
2/6/1932 – 7/2/2026
Joan A. (Distler) Keville, of North Bellmore, NY passed away peacefully in her home on July 2, 2026 with her beloved family around her. Born on February 6, 1932, Joan grew up in West Hempstead, NY and completed her schooling there-culminating in being honored as Valedictorian of her Senior class.
After graduating, Joan went to work as an executive secretary at RCA. Soon after, she met the love of her life-Bernard Keville, and married him on April 26, 1958. He preceded her in death in 1976. Joan resumed working in sales, while raising her three children who were all still at home. In addition to working full-time and raising her children, Joan also found time to serve as both the Girl Scout Troop Leader and PTA President at Saw Mill Rd School where her children attended. Later, Joan worked for Faithful Response after 9/11 and also served as a docent at Coe Hall for 25 years.
A lifelong learner, Joan was diligent about keeping her mind sharp throughout her life. She was often found with a book in her hand, completing a challenging crossword puzzle, or spending countless hours in completing a jigsaw puzzle that would scare most people from even attempting.
A large part of Joan’s world was Grace Lutheran Church, where she served in many various roles throughout her 65 years of being an active member. Joan loved that church with all her heart, and loved serving the community as a member of Grace Lutheran, doing everything from serving on the church council to most recently working in their thrift store.
Joan is survived by her older sister, Doris Shoppmann, of Southbury, CT; her Daughters Barbara Keville of NYC and Susan Self (Chuck) of Cashiers, NC and son John (Sandy) of Houston, TX.
She is also survived by her six grandchildren who all knew and loved her as “Nana”…Kelsey Gottcent, Nikki Gottcent, Meghan Gottcent, Max Keville, Jake Keville and Olivia Keville.
The family extends their profound gratitude to all the members at Grace Lutheran and to all the neighbors who became Joan’s extended family through the years.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, July 7 th from 4-8pm at Bellmore Funeral Home at 2340 Jerusalem Ave in North Bellmore. A celebration of life for Joan will take place on Wednesday, July 8 th 10am at Grace Lutheran Church, at 1294 Bellmore Ave North Bellmore, NY 11710.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Grace Lutheran Church in Joan’s memory.
VISITATION AT FUNERAL HOME
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Bellmore Funeral Home
2340 Jerusalem Ave
N Bellmore, New York 11710
View Map
FUNERAL SERVICE
10:00 am
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Grace Lutheran Church
1294 Bellmore Ave
North Bellmore, New York 11710
View Map
FINAL RESTING PLACE
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Long Island National Cemetery
2040 Wellwood Avenue
Farmingdale, New York 11735
View Map
In the Care Of