Joanice Marinho passed away on July 28, 2026. She was 72. Visiting will be on Friday from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the Armitage Wiggins Funeral Home. Mass will be on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. in St. Stephens Church. Private cremation will follow.
Joanice is the wife of the late Frank and beloved mother of Frank, Jr. (Kelly), Christine D’Elia (Joseph) and Erica Farrell (Sean). Sister of Buddy Kiss (Sandy) and the late George Kiss (his wife Pam is still living). Grandmother of Brady, Joey, Declan, Jameson, Jack, Kevin and Makenna. She is also survived by loving inlaws, nieces and nephews. Born and raised in Harrison, New Jersey, Joanice developed a passion for ballroom dancing at a young age. Her talent and dedication led her and her dance partner to win the prestigious Harvest Moon Ball, an achievement that earned them the opportunity to perform the Fox Trot on The Ed Sullivan Show. For many years, it was one of the memories she cherished most.
That all changed when she met the love of her life.
Their story began in the halls of Harrison High School when Joanice happened upon Frank's lost wallet while opening lockers. She returned it, they began dating soon afterward, and the rest became a beautiful love story. They married in 1974 and built a life centered on love and family. Together they welcomed their son, Franklin Jr., followed by their daughters, Christine and Erica. Those milestones, along with the family they created together, became Joanice's greatest pride and joy.
To know Joanice was to love her. She had an extraordinary gift for making people feel comfortable from the moment they met her. Whether speaking with a lifelong friend or someone she had just met, she could strike up a conversation about anything, making everyone feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Her warm smile, kind heart, and genuine interest in others left lasting impressions wherever she went.
Even as her health declined in recent years, Joanice never lost her gentle spirit. Doctors, nurses, and caregivers frequently remarked on her kindness and grace, noting that despite the pain and challenges she faced, she always greeted them with warmth, patience, and a smile.
Family was the center of Joanice's world. She never missed an important birthday, holiday, or milestone, and she found the most thoughtful and creative ways to celebrate the people she loved. She rarely arrived empty-handed, always carrying a carefully chosen gift—especially for her grandchildren. Somehow, even the most unexpected presents became instant favorites, leaving her grandchildren amazed at how Grandma always seemed to know exactly what would bring them joy.
More than anything, Joanice will be remembered for the love she poured into her family, the kindness she extended to everyone she met, and the countless lives she touched through simple acts of generosity and compassion. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the memories she created, and the love she gave so freely.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers kindly consider a donation to your own favorite charity in her her memory.
