Joan S. Vandiver

Joan S. Vandiver passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, in her hometown of Jackson, TN, at the age of 97. Born on February 12, 1928, Joan was the epitome of grace, love, and devotion to family, friends, and her faith.

Raised in Calvary Baptist Church, Joan's deep commitment to spirituality followed her throughout her life. After graduating from Jackson High School in the class of 1946, she embarked on a career in civil service as a staffing specialist and worked with the Federal Women's Program for the Air Force. It was in Washington D.C. where she met the love of her life, John Vandiver, a military man whose dedication to his country mirrored her own commitment to service and community.

The couple’s love story was marked by adventure, as their journey began with a move to Japan where they were stationed for three years. Their military life took them to many places, including Wichita Falls, TX, and Denver, CO, before they finally retired to Surfside Beach, SC. For over 50 glorious years, Surfside Beach became their sanctuary, filled with laughter and the joyous spirit of shared celebrations among a tight-knit neighborhood of fellow retired military couples. Joan’s flair for planning meant that every holiday and birthday was celebrated with warmth and enthusiasm, making her the heart and soul of every gathering.

Joan's adventures extended beyond the confines of her military life; she had a zest for travel with John, and her love for the beach was profound. Many fond memories were made at their house, close to the beach, where cousins would visit, filling the home with laughter and love. Her artistic spirit thrived through painting and crafts, hobbies that brought her immense joy in her spare time.

Throughout her life, Joan poured love into every role she embraced, including her position working in the nursery at First Baptist Church of Surfside Beach, where her nurturing nature shone brightly. Always the planner, she created spaces for people to come together, whether it was for a holiday celebration or simply a casual gathering.

Left to cherish her memory are many cousins, two of whom, she thought of as her own children, Barbara Wood and Beverly Fisher. They and their families have been the children and grandchildren she never had. Also surviving are two special nephews, Keith Weir and Kris Weir and their families. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Vandiver; and parents, Cletus and Voris Simmons.

A memorial service to celebrate Joan's life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend a huge thank you to Hospice of West TN and Wellington Manor of Jackson for their love and care. They really did love her like family.