Marie Joan Ridge, 89, of Beach Haven Gardens, Long Beach Island, NJ, known to family and friends as Joan, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025.

Joan was born in Philadelphia, PA to John W. and Marie H. (Leidecker), who, along with her sister, Elizabeth (Eberhardt), preceded her in passing. She is survived by her brother-in-law, Daniel Eberhardt (husband of the late Elizabeth), and nieces, Joan Moreno and Paula Hartey, along with their families.

Joan grew up in the Crescentville section of Philadelphia and attended Olney High School. After graduation, she had a brief career working at the Naval Depot as a clerk typist until relocating to her parents second home on Long Beach Island, where she cherished quiet days and long walks with her dogs.

Joan devoted her energy to the things she loved most, leaving household upkeep far down her list of priorities. A lifelong animal lover, Joan had a soft spot for creatures great and small, often going out of her way to feed any strays that came along, much to the bemusement of her neighbors. Over the years, her dogs, cats, and birds became more than pets; they were her family.

Joan enjoyed spending time outside, often with a book in hand, chatting with neighbors. She approached life on her own terms. She was unapologetically herself, with a boldness that left an impression. She valued her independence, even when advancing age made that difficult.

Joan will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park, next to her beloved sister, in a private service attended by her family.