Joan Gerbracht

Joan Gerbracht, 96, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 21, 2025, in Lynchburg, Virginia. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving Runk and Pratt family and her dedicated team at James River Hospice.

Joan was born on May 27, 1929, in Buffalo, New York, to Richard and Fern Bockelkamp. She was blessed with a sister, Jean.

Joan lived a rich and vibrant life, beginning with her college years where she was an active member of her sorority and surrounded by many dear friends. Her outgoing spirit, warmth, and dedication to community touched all who knew her.

On June 12, 1948, she married her soulmate, Robert “Bob” Gerbracht. Together, they shared more than five decades of love and devotion until his passing from cancer on March 4, 2003. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and commitment, and the bond they created continues to live on through their family.

Joan devoted her life to her family as a wonderful homemaker, always placing their needs above her own. She is survived by her two children: son, Gale Robert Gerbracht (Kathy), and daughter, Lori Joan Gerbracht. She was a beloved grandmother to three granddaughters: Lauren Miller (Kevin), Lindsay Gerbracht, and Lynnae Martinez (Ramon). Joan also leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Carlie, Morgan, Reagan, Lettie, Lucas, and Levi. She is preceded in death by her precious seventh great-granddaughter, Lillian.

Joan will be remembered as selfless, humble, and deeply devoted to her roles as wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was loved dearly and will be profoundly missed.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 am on August 26, 2025 at Tharp Funeral Home. Private interment will follow at Presbyterian Cemetery, Lynchburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Joan’s honor to The Alzheimer’s Foundation at www.alzfdn.org

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.