Joan Marie Engle Rowland Hilbert Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Joan Marie Engle Rowland Hilbert, age 79, of Bristol Virginia, passed away on January 31, 2017 at her home surrounded by her children and family. Born in Doylestown, PA to the late Vivian and Edward Holcombe, Joan left this world with the same spunk and enthusiasm that those who got to know her appreciated and cherished. Raised in Lambertville, New Jersey, Joan’s spark for life started at an early age. Always flanked by her younger sister, Dory and brother, Nelson (deceased), the three formed a bond that few siblings can claim. On July 12, 1958, something magical occurred when Joan married her high school sweetheart, Ted Engle (deceased), forming what became a legacy that instilled love and laughter with whomever they touched. Over the next 5 years, Joan brought into this world Rhonda, Cindy, Tim and Sharon which became her pride, joy and strength. Over the years that followed, the tree that took root on that memorable summer day in 1958 had formed many branches, totaling 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Joan spent the last 20 years of her life with Les Hilbert enjoying her family. In the end, we are left with what she brought to the world. Joan’s legacy to her family, friends and community are numerous. Whether it was the thousands of children she embraced at the 4H Center, or her dramatic theatrics with Theatre Bristol, she consistently reflected a life of living. She worked with dedication to the church and the Kiwanis Club, serving as the second of only three female presidents which typified her commitment to the community. We can be thankful on this day that Joan Marie blessed us with her life. She is survived by her husband Les, her four children Rhonda, Cindy, Tim and his wife Sonya, Sharon and her husband Jim, her sister, Dorothea Ludwig and her 23 grandchildren and great- grandchildren, and lastly her faithful companion, Bitsy the Beagle. She was preceded in death by her husband Ted Engle, second husband Kay Rowland and her brother Nelson Holcombe. A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 pm, Sunday, February 5, 2017 at State Street United Methodist Church, 300 W. Valley Drive, Bristol, VA. Those desiring to send flowers may send them to Akard Funeral Home. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family at akardfuneralhome.com Akard Funeral Home, 1912 West State St., Bristol, TN (423)989-4800 is serving the family of Mrs. Hilbert.

Joan Marie Engle Rowland Hilbert

November 26, 1937 - January 31, 2017