Joan Wendler

Joan was born in Holland, Texas on December 6th, 1933, to Bud N.A. Whitlow and Tillie Woytek Whitlow. She was baptized and confirmed at the Church of Christ in Holland, Texas. She graduated from Holland High School and attended Temple Junior College and Mary Hardin Baylor University. She married the love of her life, Glenwood Ray Wendler, on March 15th, 1954, and had two sons, Wilson Whitlow and Jason Judd.

Joan lived during the depths of the Great Depression. She was a quiet witness to nearly a century of change and resilience. From childhood hardships to the comforts of a home she built with unwavering strength, Joan’s life was a testament to perseverance, grace, and a deep appreciation for life’s simplest joys. A lifetime lover of flowers, Joan found beauty and peace in her garden. She could find meaning with any flower and often had a story for each of her plants. Her gift for nurturing could bring any plant to life, just as her kind heart cared for those around her.

Joan was a proud mother of two sons, Wilson and Jason, who inherited her curiosity and strong demeanor. She often smiled at their excitement for the stock market, and over time she found herself following along too, sharing their sense of fascination.

Joan cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her ‘Nane Joan.’ She was both a great teacher and storyteller. She was unlike other grandmothers, remembered for her high heels, sleek ponytail, and signature sunglasses, a reflection of her vibrant spirit and timeless elegance. Joan was a great cook and was known for her buttery mashed potatoes and homemade dewberry cobblers.

Joan is survived by sons, Wilson and his wife, Cheryl Wendler, and Jason and his wife, Sandy Wendler. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Walt and his wife, Katy Wendler of Bryan; Waylon Wendler and Kayce Burges of Snook; Haley and her husband, Casey Henly of Brenham; Skyler and her husband, Jared Batten of College Station; Weston and his wife, Hannah Wendler of College Station; Wilsey Wendler and her fiancé, Anthony Wilganowski of Hitchcock; and Jessica and her husband, Bryan Thurston of Bryan. Her great-grandchildren include Ava, Emma, Luke, and Ella Wendler; Brooke, Quinn, and Reese Henly; Henry and Walker Batten; Glenwood and Gunner Wendler; and Brady Thurston. She is preceded in death by her mother, father, and soulmate, Glenwood Ray Wendler.

The family would like to thank everyone at Crestview Nursing Home. In lieu of flowers, Joan would have wanted you to plant something of your own and remember her when it blooms.

Rest well, Nane Joan. Your love lives on.