Joni "Boomie" Cotter's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Joni "Boomie" Cotter
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joan L. Cotter, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who touched the lives of many in her 48 years as the owner of Small World Day Care center. Joni's journey began on October 10, 1941, and peacefully came to an end on November 7, 2023.
A dedicated matriarch, Joni was not only a loving mother but also a pillar of strength for her family. Her warmth and nurturing spirit were the cornerstones of her role as a mother, and her legacy of unconditional love will continue to live on in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Joni is survived by her brothers: James (Phyllis) Kirkpatrick and Jack (Barbara) Kirkpatrick and her loving children William (Traci) Cotter and Kirk (Lisa) Cotter: grandchildren Christine (Rich), Michael, Nick (Alisha), Evan, Cory (Shealyn), Leah (Nyk), Christopher, Coral, and Hayley; great-grandchildren Sophia, Finley, Farrah, Charley along with many beloved nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents James (Dorothy) Kirkpatrick and Lois (Gabriel) Pesacreta, her brothers: W. Robert Fisher, William (Jackie) Kirkpatrick and her son Kevin "Butchie" (Lisa) Cotter.
For nearly five decades, Joni's passion for caring extended beyond her own family. Her daycare center, a second home to countless children, was a testament to her dedication and love for the community. Joni's nurturing and guidance played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of many young ones, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.
But it wasn't just within the walls of her daycare that Joni's love shone brightly. She was a true neighborhood gem, offering a welcoming smile and a helping hand to anyone in need. Her kindness and generosity were felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was a deacon at Brentwood Presbyterian Church, where she was known for her infectious laugh and her knack for turning even the most mundane task into a riotous adventure. Also a member of the Colonel William Wallace chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Joni brought history to life. She was proof that you could honor your heritage and have a good time doing it.
Joni was also the den mother of the local Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, a role she embraced with gusto. She was famous for her epic block parties and the annual Sunflower Contest, where she encouraged her neighbors to grow the biggest, brightest sunflowers possible, always with a twist of humor and a dash of competition.
But perhaps most unexpected was Joni's love for motorcycles. She was a firm believer that laughter is the best medicine, and nothing made her laugh more than the sight of herself, a deacon and PTA mom, cruising around on her motorcycle.
Joni Cotter's legacy is one of love, compassion, and community. She leaves behind a family and neighborhood that will forever be grateful for the love she shared and the lives she touched. While her physical presence may be gone, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to call her mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.
Family and friends will be received on Saturday November 11, 2023 from 2 - 4 pm and 6 - 8 pm at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Inc., 301 Curry Hollow Rd, Pittsburgh PA 15236.
A celebration of Joni's life will take place at 10:00 am Monday November 13, 2023 in the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donating to a local children's charity, as a tribute to Joni's lifelong dedication to the welfare of children.
Joni Cotter, a loving mother, and a caring soul will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May she rest in eternal peace.
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