Joan Theresa Albright

Joan was born on September 8, 1939, in Hamtramck, Michigan, the middle daughter of John and Tillie Malek. She was preceded in death by her sister, Pat, and her beloved husband, Edsel. She is survived by her sister, Linda; her children, Kim and Adam; and her grandchildren, Anthony, Amber, and Aydan.

After graduating from the High School of Commerce in 1957, Joan began her career as a secretary at R.C. Mahone’s. When her first child was born, she devoted herself to raising Kim and Adam. When they reached their teenage years, Joan returned to work and went on to become an executive assistant at a global automotive paint corporation. A skilled professional, she was among the last to use shorthand to take meeting notes and dictation—a skill she had learned in high school.

Joan discovered her love of dance at a young age, beginning with tap and later embracing ballroom dancing. Her talent and passion took her far: she once auditioned for the Radio City Rockettes and was offered a place on the team but ultimately chose not to move to New York.

Dance also brought Joan and Edsel together. The son of Ira and Ima, Edsel became her partner in life as well as on the dance floor. They married in 1961 and began their 63-year life together in Warren, Michigan. As champion ballroom dancers, they shared their love of dance by teaching lessons in the basement of their home and at dance studios. They began their life together in Warren and moved to Sterling Heights in 1977.

Joan and Edsel loved traveling the world, especially visiting Mexico, where they made many happy memories with family and friends. Joan cherished time with her grandchildren and loved attending their games, competitions, and family events, as well as those of her children.

Her love extended to her dogs—Pepe, Max, Casey, and Lily—and she was always happy to help care for her children’s dogs. There was rarely a time when Joan’s home was without a dog’s companionship.

Joan leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, laughter, and generosity. Though she will be deeply missed, the warmth of her memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 10:00am (visitation beginning at (9:30am) at St. Jane Francis de Chantel Catholic Church (38750 Ryan Rd Sterling Hts., MI 48310)

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation in Joan’s name to the Breast Cancer Foundation | Susan G. Komen®