Joan Ann Starrick Novak, 81, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Ocean University Medical Center in Brick, New Jersey.

Born on April 15, 1944, in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, Joan spent her early childhood there and attended St. Joseph’s School. In 1956, she moved with her family to Manville, New Jersey, where she continued her education and graduated from Manville High School. Following graduation, she began working at RCA Records, where she remained until 1969.

In 1967, Joan married Edward Novak, and together they raised five children in Spotswood, New Jersey: Karen Ann Novak Daniele, Kevin Edward Novak, David Brian Novak, Jeffrey Daniel Novak, and Daniel Lawrence Novak.

After her divorce, Joan began a long career with Pathmark, where she worked for nearly 20 years before retiring in 2005. She later moved to Brick, New Jersey, where she spent the later years of her life surrounded by family and those she loved most.

Joan especially cherished time with her grandchildren, Gianna Marie Daniele, Kailey Ann Daniele, Russell David Novak, and Luke Stanley Novak. She also shared a close bond with her sister, Gloria Jean Starrick Kulaszewski Snyder, and her husband, Scott Snyder.

Joan was preceded in death by her mother, Anna Marie Gasper Starrick Onderko; her father, John Starrick; her stepfather, Nicholas Onderko; her brother, John J. Starrick; and her son, David Brian Novak.

She will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her years of hard work, and the love she shared with those around her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and all who knew her.