JOAN D. GLOSTER (née Hamilton) was born on April 24, 1952, in Montgomery, West Virginia, to Sarah Bohanna and Elenza Hamilton. On her journey’s end, she peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones.
Joan’s journey began in the hills of West Virginia, before her path led her to Buffalo, New York, where she moved as a young girl with her mother and siblings. As a teenager, she spent time in Chicago with her father, where she began high school, later returning to Buffalo and graduating proudly from Fosdick Masten High School.
With a passion for learning and a drive for excellence, Joan pursued secretarial sciences at Sawyer School for Business. Her career began at EJ Meyers Hospital (now ECMC) as a file clerk, before she paused to embrace her most treasured role—motherhood—with the birth of her daughter, Jennifer L. Hamilton. In her young adult years, Joan was married to Lawrence Washington, with whom she shared many years of companionship and family life. Joan later returned to healthcare, devoting 35 years of faithful service at Buffalo General Hospital. It was there she met the love of her life, Richard Gloster, and they were united in marriage in April 2008.
Joan found joy in simple pleasures, whether working crossword puzzles or coloring with her daughter.
Joan’s life was marked by resilience. Despite health challenges, her unwavering faith in God gave her strength, courage, and hope.
Her radiant spirit, warm smile, and boundless love made her the sunshine and light in the lives of all who knew her.
Joan’s legacy lives on through her devoted daughters, Jennifer Lynn (Claude) and Antoinette Nicole (Damion); her cherished grandchildren, Christopher LaMarr (Ebony), Passion Vascere (Gene), Timisha Jenique, Anthony Bartholomew, Antiqua Jennifer, and James JaQuel; her treasured great-grandchildren, E’Liyah Krystalynn, Ne’Lisha Lynnette, DaJuan, Jennifer Jazmine, A’Naylah Consuela, Sincere Anthony James, Geneen Vascere, Serenity Lynn, LaMani JoLee, Gene Jr., Sacarii Belle, Bryon Lamant, Bry’ir Richard, Christopher Jr., and Carl III; and her beloved siblings, Carolyn, Nora (Clarence), Bertha (Lonnie), Paul (Christine), and Patty. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Joan was preceded in death by her siblings, James Carl, Carl, and Virginia.
Joan’s life was a testament to grace, faith, and unconditional love. Though Joan will be deeply missed, she will forever be remembered as a woman of resilience, strength, and light—an anchor for her family and a blessing to all whose lives she touched.
The family will receive friends Friday. September 26, 2025, 10:00 AM at True Bethel Baptist Church, 472 Swan Street, Buffalo, New York 14204. Funeral to follow at 11:00 AM.
