Joan Lenore Kingsley peacefully went to be with the Lord at home with her life partner, Bonnye Bond, by her side on Saturday, January 9th, 2016. Joan was born on January 31, 1934 in New York, NY. She was raised in Bronxville, NY and attended Bronxville High School. She obtained a BS degree in Physical Education and Health, along with a MS and PH.D degree in Physical Education from New York University. She later obtained another MS degree in Counseling from the State University of New York College at Oneonta.
Joan started her career as a physical education teacher at Walton Central School in Walton, NY teaching girl’s physical education and coaching interscholastic sports. In 1963 she became a faculty member at the State University College at Oneonta, NY. She taught numerous health courses and coached the university varsity teams such as, field hockey, basketball, softball, and fencing. In 1969 Joan was named the Director of Women’s Athletics and in 1975 she was named the Chairperson of the Department of Health and Physical Education at the State University College at Oneonta. Joan was a highly regarded speaker on athletic issues. Joan was also a strong advocate for women’s rights and lectured nationally on women’s issues. Joan retired from the university in 1991.
Joan had a love of adventure and a zest for life. She competed in field hockey, kayaking, golf and softball tournaments. She loved hiking and exploring new places. She had a passion for animals and raised cats, dogs, and exotic birds.
Joan and Bonnye moved to San Antonio, TX in 1993. She was a member of the United States Tennis Association, Windcrest Tennis Club, and the National Senior Women’s Tennis Association. She was a highly ranked national player in each age group in which she competed. Joan was a member of Coker United Methodist Church serving as a Stephen Minister and was active in the adult Sunday school program.
Joan will be remembered for her enthusiasm for life, her graciousness, loyalty to family, and wonderful sense of humor. She was a spiritual person who inspired others with her faith.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Chauncey Frank Kingsley and Marion Etter Morf Kingsley. She is survived by her son, Thomas William Kingsley of Oneonta, NY; her sister, Diane Kingsley Vanderland of Temple, TX; her nephew, William Sidney Vanderland of Midland, TX; her nieces, Sandra Louise Hudson of Harker Heights, TX and Marian Alice Lowther of Seminole, FL; 7 grand nephews and nieces; and 5 great grand nephews and niece.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations in Joan’s name be given to Coker United Methodist Church of San Antonio, TX or any animal rescue organization.