JOAN ANASTASIA SKODA (née Zelis), a devoted Catholic woman of deep faith and selfless love, passed away unexpectedly on February 12, 2026, in Allen, Texas, at the age of 94.

Born on February 27, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, Joan lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering devotion to her family, and an enduring commitment to her faith. She was a beloved wife to Robert Charles Skoda for 51 cherished years until his passing in 2005. Together, they built a warm and loving home, raising four children who were the center of her world. She delighted in seeing her grandchildren grow up and have precious children of their own.

Joan was a hopeless romantic at heart, always finding joy in the simple beauties of life and love. She wanted everyone to find the kind of love she had with her Bobby Skoda.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her daily routine; for many years, she received the Holy Eucharistic as often as possible, prayed the rosary faithfully, offering intentions for her family with a mother’s tender heart. She prayed especially that her family, and all people, would embrace the true Catholic Faith and live it authentically.

A woman of profound selflessness, she consistently put others before herself, serving those around her with generosity. Joan worked in many administrative roles for over 40 years to provide opportunities for her children.

She had a special gift for making every holiday a beautiful, lasting memory through her delicious cooking and thoughtful touches that turned ordinary moments into treasured traditions. Joan loved nurturing others, whether through a home-cooked meal or a listening ear, always ready to lend a hand or share her warmth.

Joan had a passion for music. She taught herself piano, tap danced, and enjoyed musical theater. She left a legacy of dancers and musicians in her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

An avid follower of world events, she stayed remarkably engaged with news via her iPad from the moment the device was invented until her final hospitalization. She loved her country and took her voting responsibility seriously.

Joan was especially grateful for all of the beautiful aides, doctors, nurses, priests and church volunteers who helped her live out her final years with dignity and grace.

Following her mother’s example, she ended all greetings and visits with “Be happy” …

Joan is survived by her four loving children: Mark (Maryann), Robert (Tricia), Melissa Kovach (William) and Susan Leach (Stephen); six grandchildren: Anastasia and Collin Klopfenstein (Alyssa); Amanda Poulin (Stephen), Katerina Reno, Michael and Matthew Skoda and six great-grandchildren: Amelia, Cannon, Christopher, Joshua, Gabriel and Luka; all of whom were deeply cherished and will carry her legacy of love, faith, and kindness forward.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert, her parents, John and Helen Zelis, and her brothers, John and David Zelis.

Joan’s life was a testament to quiet heroism—lived in service, prayer, and family. May she rest in the peace of Christ, whom she served so faithfully, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Funeral Mass Saturday February 21, St. Patrick Church (West Park) at 10 A.M. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.

Please no flowers. In lieu of memorial contributions, the family requests donations to Carmelites of Dallas, 600 Flowers Ave. Dallas, TX 75211in memory of Joan Skoda.