Joan Ruth Wilbret, 93, of Belleville, IL, born August 2, 1932, passed peacefully Friday, May 8, 2026, at Keystone Place at Richland Creek, O’Fallon, IL.
Joan was born and raised in Belleville, IL. She was a graduate of Notre Dame Academy, received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Webster University and MEd from St. Louis University.
She taught in elementary schools in Belleville and California and retired from Harmony-Emge School District #175, where she taught History and Geography at Emge Junior High School.
Joan enjoyed traveling and dining out. She toured over 50 countries during her summer breaks.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Marcellas and Rosella C., nee St. Eve, Wilbret.
Surviving Joan are her brother, Robert “Bob” (Kathy) Wilbret; three nephews and a niece, Daniel (Michelle) Wilbret, Mary Lisa Gilbert, Mark (Tarra) Vance and Matthew (Katherine) Vance; and numerous, cousins, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of donor’s choice. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026, at St. Henry Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026, at St. Henry Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Kenneth York officiating.
Burial will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
