A Service of Witness to the Resurrection for Joan Reed Close

April 7, 1932 – November 23, 2024

Today, the First Presbyterian Church of Buffalo gathered to honor the life of Joan Reed Close in a heartfelt Service of Witness to the Resurrection. The sanctuary was filled with family, friends, and church members who came together to celebrate her faith, dedication, and enduring impact on the community.

The service was led by Reverend Leslie Latham, who shared a heartfelt meditation, reflecting on Joan’s profound impact on the church and the lives she touched. Rev. Leslie noted:

"The first thing I always heard about Joan was that she was clerk of session, the one who kept the ruling body in order. She held that role for what seemed like forever—seriously, fifty years or something. Joan’s dedication, her meticulous nature, and her love for this church were unmatched."

Family and friends of Joan Close during service

Joan’s legacy extended beyond her role as clerk. Rev. Latham recounted how she and her beloved husband, Don, met at Foursquare and how their partnership exemplified love and devotion. Together, they tackled challenges with grace, including the installation of the church’s lift elevator—a project born of their determination to ensure accessibility for all, inspired by Don’s needs.

The meditation also included a reading from Proverbs, often referred to as an ode to a woman of strength:

"She is strong, compassionate, wise, lovely inside and out—a wife of noble character worth far more than rubies. For some, this passage might feel overreaching, but having known Joan, even briefly, and having learned about her life, it’s easy to imagine that Lemuel’s mother could have had Joan in mind."

Family, friends, and church members gathered in remembrance of Joan Close.

Joan’s strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her family, church, and community made her a pillar of grace and faith. Whether serving as clerk of session for decades, caring for her beloved husband, Don, or ensuring the church’s lift elevator was installed, Joan approached every task with love and devotion.

Her life embodied the Beatitudes and the wisdom of Proverbs, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Joan’s family and loved ones. As we remember her extraordinary life, we find comfort in the assurance that she is now at peace, embraced by God’s eternal love.

If you wish to leave remembrances for the family, please email them to close.carolyn@gmail.com.

"Thanks be to God for the life of Joan Reed Close."