Joann R.C. Shields

Obituary of Joann R.C. Shields JOANN R.C. SHIELDS Dec 5, 1940 – Jan 4, 2021 Joann R.C. Shields of Gasport, NY went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on January 4th, 2021. She passed peacefully at home under the loving care of her family under the guidance of Niagara Hospice. Joann was the daughter of the late Alexander F. and Violet (Cooper) Dickson. She was born in South Queensferry, Scotland and arrived in Newfane with her parents and brother on Christmas Eve, 1948. Joann held a license as a Real Estate Broker for many years having her office in her home in Newfane. She also worked as a migrant tutor for The Research Foundations, SUNY at Fredonia and Brockport for 18 years teaching English in the camps, homes, and several Niagara County School Districts. She retired from Lockport City School system in 2007 after 10 years of service as a special education teacher’s aide. Joann championed for the disadvantaged and children with disabilities, particularly children with autism. She was co-founder of the Lockport Autism Awareness Group which offered support to families and caregivers of autistic children. Joann also volunteered at Buffalo State College and University of Buffalo with her husband teaching English to International Students with whom she made many life-long friendships, which included Ma Hua, an “adopted” daughter from China. Having a need to care for older folks led Joann to work for Christian Home Companions where she found great satisfaction in advocating and caring for the everyday needs of the elderly.
Joann is survived by her husband, Daniel D. (Danny) Shields, her children Denise J. Tucciarone of Tampa, Florida, Valerie J. Shields (Scott Dubickas) of Wheatfield, N.Y., Jay D. (Jodie) Shields, Lancaster, N.Y., five grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and her loving pets. She was the sister of the late Alexander F. Dickson, Jr., sister-in-law of the late Billie J. Dickson of Gasport and Ellery and Dee Shields of Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania.
No prior visitation. Joann’s memorial service will be held at the Solid Rock Assembly of God, 8590 Rochester Rd., Gasport, NY 14067 at a later date. Internment will be held privately at Wrights Corners Cemetery.
Donations in Joann’s name can be made to Lockport Care Net Pregnancy Center, Roswell Comprehensive Care Center, or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be shared at www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com. 2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.