MEMBER PROFILE: JOAN MCNULTY

Meet Joan McNulty, a life-long and long-lived member of Washington Avenue Christian Church. Joan was adopted as a baby and grew up much-loved by her mom, dad, and step-brother. She attended this church in its original Second Street location and was baptized there on April 10, 1949.

One of Joan’s favorite activities as a child was biking or walking to Cascade Park. She particularly liked visiting the park’s bear cages.

Joan attended Elyria Schools and took a secretarial course at Ohio Business College on Broad Street. She and George Robert (Bob) McNulty were married by Dr. Henry Shaw in our Washington Avenue sanctuary on February 13, 1954. Theirs was one of the earliest marriage ceremonies performed in the newly-relocated church. Bob served in the U.S. Air Force and then made a career at U.S. Steel. Joan kept busy caring for their children—three girls and a boy—in a lovely home that Bob built with the help of his brother, a contractor.

The McNulty Family attended services faithfully, and particularly enjoyed sitting in the balcony on Christmas Eve. After Bob became ill, Joan would bring him to church in his wheelchair.

Joan spends most of her time these days in that same home, doing much of its maintenance herself. She is active on Facebook and loves watching Pianoman Bob who dedicated a song, and spoke with her via phone, on her birthday during his livestreamed show.

A life-long dog lover, Joan recently had to say goodbye to her beautiful Abbie who gave her love and companionship for nine years. Joan soon decided that ‘alone’ wasn’t acceptable and welcomed Lucy, a fluffy white puppy, into her life. Lucy is a bundle of energy and keeps Joan happily occupied.

Joan enjoys visits with her children, 12 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren but proudly maintains her independence.

Joan McNulty is a special friend, and we are glad she is part of our WACC family.

Profile provided by Jane Hutson and Brenda Keenan.