It is with great sadness that the family of Joan Thomas announces her peaceful passing on September 10, 2026, at her home in Bakersfield. Joan was born in Long Beach, California on November 27, 1929, along with her twin brother Robert, to parents Martin and Mildred Gottschalk. She spent her early years in Oildale, and after marrying Miles in 1950 lived on Vineland Road where they farmed for over 70 years. In addition to cotton, they raised 3 daughters who provided them with 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and the first great-great on the way!

Being a farmer’s wife did not allow for much free time, but she managed to be a 4-H leader, Sunday School teacher and participate in PTA, Cotton Wives and Arvin Women’s Fellowship and Historical Society. She was very proud to be a charter member of the local potluck group of friends who met once a month for a dinner for over 60 years. She was known for her delicious meals, and skills at her sewing machine. In later years, she could always be found with a book in her hand and she passed her love of reading on to her daughters and grandchildren.

She and Miles were fortunate to be able to travel throughout the world to China, Greece, Egypt, Kenya, Great Britain, Greenland, Mexico and Canada with both friends and family. In later years Joan enjoyed reconnecting with her friends from high school in the O-8’ers and the Gals of ‘47.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Miles, twin brother, Robert, and grandson, Mike Lampe. She is survived by her daughters Janet Lampe and children Kevin, his wife Linda and their children Taylor and McKenna and her husband Joe; daughter Julie King and her children Cody, his wife Khalehla, and Logan; daughter Connie Reader and children Danny Reader, his wife Carrie and their children Ava and Maggie; Tim Reader, his wife Marissa and their children Andrew and Colt; and Brian Reader, his wife Jill and their children Luca and Peyton; and daughter Nancy Medina, her husband John and her children Jeremiah and Seth. Joan is also survived by her nephew, Steven Gottschalk and nieces Lisa Harris and Shelley Hitchcock (Chuck).

The internment will be private. In lieu of flowers condolences can be expressed by donations to Houchin’s Blook Bank in Bakersfield or Habitat for Humanity. The family wishes to thank the staff and many friends at The Pointe at Summit Hills who made her last years so wonderful. Any questions can be directed to Janet (702) 521-7126 and/or Connie (831-320-8878.