Joan M. Crowther Of Westhampton Beach Dies August 27

Joan M. Crowther of Westhampton Beach and formerly of Cedar Grove, New Jersey, and Naples, Florida, died at home in Westhampton Beach on August 27. She was 85.

Born November 22, 1934 in Jersey City to Edwin and Elizabeth Metzkier, Ms. Crowther graduated from Caldwell College, married Jim Crowther, the love of her life, and became an 11th grade English teacher for a short moment before starting her family.

She became an accomplished cook who published several cookbooks now considered “rare editions.” She was a renowned hostess and gave many memorable parties, her family said.

Ms. Crowther owned a successful stationary store, was a tireless volunteer and was involved with many organizations like the Junior League of Montclair/Newark, the Montclair Art Museum and the Garden Club of Montclair.

One group she truly believed in was AA, and was a loyal member for many years, her family said. She was a founding board member of Turning Point, Inc., formerly of Cedar Grove, New Jersey, an addiction treatment center, because she strongly believed in second chances.

She had many passions, including needle point, knitting and floral arranging, of which she earned Master Judge status.

Mr. and Ms. Crowther traveled extensively, enjoyed golf and gardening and playing bridge together. They belonged to many clubs, including Westhampton Country Club, Montclair Golf Club, Essex Fells Country Club and the Country Club of Naples.

Ms. Crowther was stylish, honest, impatient and fun to be around, her family said. She had many friends and admirers from all areas of her life. Most of all, she enjoyed her ever-growing family and couldn’t wait to meet the four new members on the way, her family said.

She was predeceased by her husband James Crowther Sr.; and her son Jonathan Crowther. She is survived by her children Claire Haugh (Michael), James Crowther Jr., G. Colman Crowther (Sheri), Alexandra O’Neill (Blake), Alaine Roberts (Philip), Martin Crowther (Wendy); twenty-one grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 4, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church in Westhampton Beach, followed by a graveside service. Memorial donations may be made to East End Hospice at www.eeh.org or Westhampton Free Library at www.westhamptonlibrary.net.