Joan Adele LaVanway, age 72, of Arkadelphia, passed from this life on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at her home.  She was born December 6, 1952, in Shelby, MI, the daughter of the late Neil and Mildred Visger Skinner.  Joan was a member of New Life Church in Arkadelphia.  She was retired from the United States Postal Service.  Joan enjoyed sewing, hunting and fishing during her free time.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Joan is survived by her husband of thirty-two years, Richard Lynn LaVanway of Arkadelphia, one son, Rick LaVanway of Wasilla, AK, four daughters, Sheila Dunlap of Niles, MI, Sherry Philbeck of Bismarck, Shelly Harris (David Hudnall) of Arkadelphia and Sally Blocker of Caddo Valley, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren and expecting one on the way, four sisters, Sally Walker of Advance, NC, Diane Wood of DeFuniak Springs, FL, Thelma Hallack of Holland, MI and Ellen Johnston of Johnson City, TN.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM at New Life Church in Arkadelphia with Dr. Martin Jones officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time Saturday at the church.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.  Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the guest book.