Joan "Joni" Scholl Austin, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland, surrounded by the love of her children. She was 88 years old.
Born on February 15, 1938, in Llanerch, Delaware County, Pennsylvania, Joni built a life centered on family, kindness, laughter, and the simple joys that created lasting memories. On January 31, 1970, she married the love of her life, David Austin, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
To her family, Joni was simply "Mom" and "Grams." Nothing brought her greater happiness than being surrounded by those she loved, especially her eleven grandchildren. Whether she was baking something delicious, putting her artistic talents to work, relaxing at the beach, reading a good book, or gathering everyone around the table for a game, she had a gift for making ordinary moments feel special. She was, without question, the family's undefeated Rummikub champion—a title she proudly held.
Joni's greatest legacy is the family she cherished so deeply. She is lovingly survived by her children: Suzanne McNeir and her husband, Harry, of Towson, Maryland, along with their children, Margaret, Griffen, Gannon, and Madigan; Stephanie Purvis and her husband, Tony, of Mechanicsville, Maryland, and their sons, Noah and Nathan; John Austin and his wife, Bethan, of Richmond, Virginia, and their sons, David and Robert; and Thomas Austin and his wife, Lynne, of Wilmington, Delaware, and their daughter, Maya. She is also lovingly remembered by Jake and Josh Brennan of Newark, Delaware, along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her warmth and generous spirit.
A private burial will be held for the family at Arlington Cemetery in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, followed by a gathering to celebrate Joni's life.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Carly's Cause in honor of Joni's great-niece and namesake, Carly Grozier (https://www.carlyscause-usa.org).
Joni's love lives on in the traditions she created, the memories she leaves behind, and the family who will forever carry her spirit with them. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.