Joan Margaret Leidahl, of East Williston, NY passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025 at the age of 72. Born on June 20, 1953, Joan lived her entire life rooted in the town she loved, surrounded by the familiar streets, neighbors, and comforts that brought her joy. Joan was the daughter of John and Ann Miller (predeceased) of East Williston, NY.

Joan was known for her loving and loyal spirit, and for the quiet and steady devotion she showed to her family. She adored her nieces and nephews and their children, showering them with warmth, curiosity, and genuine care. Her big heart extended beyond family, too — she cherished her pets, doted on her cat, and spent time volunteering at the local dog shelter, offering kindness wherever she could.

A graduate of Adelphi University with a degree in criminal justice, Joan brought diligence and integrity to every chapter of her career. She worked for American Airlines, Esselte, and Astoria Federal Savings Bank in Garden City, NY, later transitioning into banking with a role in mortgage loans, and ultimately served as a compliance analyst. No matter the job, Joan approached each task with reliability, humility, and a strong work ethic.

At age 42, Joan married the love of her life, Gary Leidahl, with whom she shared many meaningful years. Gary predeceased her in 2018, and Joan missed him deeply. She was also predeceased by her brother, John Theodore Miller. 

She is survived by her two sisters:

Barbara McLoughlin and her husband, Jim, and their children: Kathryn, Maureen, John Theodore (Ted), and Marybeth, along with Barbara’s grandchildren: Haley, Brady, Matthew, Noelle, Nicholas, Nora, Liam, Luke, Madison, and Christopher.

Bette Lavery and her husband, Kenneth and their children: Colleen, Rosemary, Virginia and Kevin, along with Bette’s grandchildren: Cameron, Hunter, Christine, Grace, Liam, Michael, Clara and Leonard.

She also leaves behind her stepson, Gary Leidahl, Jr., and his children, all of whom she loved.

Joan was a homebody in the truest and most endearing sense — happiest in the house she grew up in, surrounded by her routines and memories. She loved visiting the library, taking quiet bike rides, enjoying time in her community, and watching soap operas with her mother, a tradition she treasured.

Those who knew Joan will remember her as gentle, steadfast, and full of quiet love. Her presence was reserved and meaningful, and her generosity of spirit left lasting imprints on those fortunate enough to be part of her life.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, December 3 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Weigand Brothers Funeral Home at 49 Hillside Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596. A funeral mass and service to honor Joan’s life will be held on Thursday, December 4 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Saint Aidan’s at 505 Willis Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to ASPCA of Nassau County, Long Island, New York.