Joan M. West 1942-2024

She was born in Cincinnati, on Jan. 9, 1942, the daughter of Anthony Francis Sr. and Elsie Amelia Schudel Goldsmith.

Throughout her career, Joan was the public affairs director at Planned Parenthood of the Mahoning Valley and a self-employed graphic artist, designer and owner of her at-home business, Lazer Works. She retired as the public relations director at Park Vista Retirement Community.

She was a strong supporter of women’s rights and reproductive rights, and a member of the National Organization of Women, where she regularly attended conferences and marches to support their issues. Joan was a self-proclaimed “political junkie” who was attentive to the news from MSNBC.

She enjoyed crocheting, raising chickens, flower and vegetable gardening, and cooking. She was a foodie.

Joan loved and cherished being a grandmother to her three grandchildren, Lucy, Mia and Adam, whom she adored.

Joan is survived by her husband, William “Bill” Cottrill of Lordstown, whom she married June 7, 1986; three grandchildren, Lucy West, Mia West and Adam Kuehnl; daughter-in-law, Jody West; son-in-law, Eric Kuehnl; and several loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Steve West; daughter, Kim Kuehnl; brother, Anthony F. Goldsmith Jr.; three sisters, Eve Durbin, Virginia Torrance and Loraine Linzy; and her former husband, Albert West.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Planned Parenthood of Ohio in Joan’s memory.

Arrangements by Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home in Niles. Visit holetonyuhasz.com to view this tribute and share condolences.

(special notice)