Joy Peerce Wahrhaftig, beloved wife, mother, relative and friend, passed away on July 23, 2024 after a battle with cancer, and other illnesses.
She is predeceased by her husband Robert, and her sister Susan. She is survived by: her brother Larry, her son Joe and cousin Barbara. In addition, she is survived by her nephews and nieces including Rebekah, Sol, Matthew, Louise, and Amy.
Joy was born on July 9, 1935, in New York City, the second of three children, to parents Alice and Jan Peerce. Alice was a manager in the performing arts. Jan was a well known tenor. Joy grew up in New Rochelle, NY. After she graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology, Joy spent several decades designing women's clothing as well as outfits for children. Her work was worn by patrons of the arts, as well as performers. Her clothing was also featured in department stores such as Bergdorf's.
Joy met her future husband, Robert Wahrhaftig in 1955, on a blind date. The couple married in the same year and spent their first decade together in Oakland. Later, they settled in Orinda California, where they stayed for over fifty years.
Joy's hobbies included spending time with friends, drawing, reading, and travel (notably to Hawaii and Sea Ranch). She was an observant Jew, who always looked forward to the holidays. She also volunteered for the American Cancer Society.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name, to the charitable organization of your choice.