Joan E. Papa

Joan Elizabeth O’Bree Papa, 97, of Ridgway, passed away with her family by her side on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at Pinecrest Nursing Home following a lengthy illness.

She was born on March 9, 1925, in Swan Hill Vic, Australia, a daughter of the late John T. and Maude Hellingsworth O’Bree.

On July 24, 1943 in St. Margaret Mary’s Catholic Church in Brunswick, Victoria, Australia, she married the late Leonard F. Papa, who preceded her in death on August 20, 1993.  Together they shared more than 50 years of love, laughter, and marriage.

Joan moved to the United States when she married her beloved husband, where they made their home and raised their family in Ridgway.  She always loved her Australian roots and carried a strong, deep love for her home country.  She grew to love America and over the years, became a history buff, always enjoying learning about U.S. history.

Some of her favorite pastimes include listening to music, crocheting, and reading.  Most of all, she loved caring for her home and family and cherished the time she spent with them.

She is survived by a daughter, Joann Caggeso and her husband Steve of Ridgway, 3 sons: Leonard J. Papa and his wife Francene of Ridgway, Randy Papa and his wife Joni of Brockport, and Mark Papa and his wife Susan of Ridgway, and by 14 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren, and 15 great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter; Marlene McKnight, a grandson; M. Aaron Papa, her son-in-law; Darryl McKnight, by four sisters; Edna McMurray, Norah Bassett, Mavis Rooney and Eileen O’Bree and by two brothers; Jock O’Bree and Daniel O’Bree.  She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

There will be no public visitation.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Joan E. Papa will be celebrated at St. Leo Magnus Church, 111 Depot Street, Ridgway, PA on Wednesday, August 17, 2022 at 11:00 AM with Fr. Justin Pino, OSB, as Celebrant.

Burial will follow in St. Leo’s Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to a Saint Jude Childrens Hospital.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, Pa, 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com