Joan May McNaughton Lorenz, 90, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026. On December 27, 1958, Joan married the love of her life, the Rev. H. Roberts Lorenz. Together they shared a devoted marriage marked by faith, travel, and service to others.

Joan dedicated many years to her family as a homemaker before pursuing her passion for education. She later became an English teacher at Downingtown Senior High School, where she taught for 16 years and inspired countless students through her love of language and literature.A true matriarch, Joan was deeply loved by her family. She joyfully hosted numerous family gatherings, remained actively involved in the lives of her grandchildren, and cherished many summers spent at the beach in Ocean City, New Jersey.

Joan and her husband also shared a love of travel, exploring destinations around the world together.Music was a lifelong passion for Joan. A gifted singer, she participated in community choirs throughout her life, served as a soloist for weddings and funerals, and was a dedicated member of church choirs for many years.Joan was also an avid writer and historian. She was part of a writing group with close friends for more than 20 years, which published a poetry collection. Her historical works included authoring the History of West Caln Township, the History of Salisbury Township, the History of St. John’s Episcopal Church Compass (1959–1989), and editing a record of Civil War veterans who lived in or were buried in Salisbury Township.Faith played a central role in Joan’s life. She was an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church Compass beginning in 1973. Following her husband’s retirement in 1997, she was also a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Lancaster until his passing in 2012.

Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, the Rev. H. Roberts Lorenz; her son, Christopher Lorenz Sr.; and her daughter-in-law, Nancy Lorenz.She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Hoskins (Grier Hoskins); her son, David Lorenz (Erin Einhorn); her brothers, William McNaughton, James McNaughton, and Noble McNaughton; her grandchildren, Jessica, Christopher, James, Nathaniel, Emily, Irena, and Lazlo; and her great-grandchildren, Maxwell, Levi, Mica, and Sam.Joan will be remembered for her intellect, creativity, strong faith, beautiful voice, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church Compass located at 1520 W Kings Hwy, Gap, PA 17527. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow the service, with a luncheon afterward in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John’s Epicopal Church, Compass. For the Cemetery Restoration fund.