Joanne Copenhaver Noble died September 25, 2026 at the Huntingdon Hospital after a tenacious and determined battle with congestive heart failure – she fought bravely and with dignity every step of the way. She was born at home in Mount Union, PA, on November 9, 1934, to Mabel (Herdman) and Charles Copenhaver, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband Vincent A. Noble; sisters Maxine Croyle, Cathleen Frankhouser and brothers Johnny and Bruce. Joanne grew up with surviving nephews Jack and Bruce Weirich and the late Dick Port, who were so close in age that they were like siblings when they were young.

Joanne is survived by her only child Maxine “Mimi” and son-in-law Greg Johnson. She is also survived by grandsons Noah and Wyatt who were the greatest joys of her life, and never failed to put a smile on her face and make her eyes sparkle with pride. Joanne is also survived by nieces Valerie Copenhaver, Stephanie Ziegler, Mary Claire Miller, and Katha Morris.

She graduated from Captain Jack High School in 1952 and as a young adult worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, as well as the housing authority in Allenport and the sewing factory in Mount Union. Once married, Joanne became a homemaker extraordinaire, ensuring that everything inside and outside of their home was meticulously cared for.

Joanne was an avid newshound who enjoyed reading any subject matter, but especially American political history. It was important to her to vote in every election. She enjoyed many types of music, particularly ragtime and old-time country and western. She had a knack for carefully choosing the perfect unique accessories to go with every outfit, and believed in making an effort to look her best before going out in public. She and her husband Vince both had a green thumb and enjoyed working together in the garden, cultivating one of the prettiest yards in the neighborhood. During the last summer of her life, she was still able to make nectar for the hummingbirds and took great pleasure in feeding and watching her numerous hummingbird visitors. For many years, she enjoyed riding her bicycle around the neighborhood and going swimming at the Country Club pool. She spent many hours on the front porch in her grandmother’s old rocking chair, feeling so relaxed that she would frequently take an accidental cat nap. Thanksgiving and Christmas meals were her specialty and her grandsons grew up looking forward to visiting her for those fantastic feasts. Her last two birthdays were joyful celebrations with close family and friends, making happy memories which were frequent topics of discussion. Joanne was a feisty lady who had a mind like a steel trap and could remember names, dates, and details about family history and information about Mount Union and surrounding areas with impressive accuracy.

In Joanne’s honor, please make time to visit those that would enjoy your company – stay a little longer and have that cup of tea. Write someone a note, send a card, check in, or make a phone call. Remember that it all goes by in a flash.

Joanne was a lifetime member of the Mount Union Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to her church, earmarked specifically for the organ restoration fund, which was a cause she cared deeply about. 

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.