Joan Clinton Shields

Joan Clinton Shields passed away peacefully in her home on June 6, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in Sheffield, England, on February 6, 1935, Joan lived a life marked by resilience, wit, and unwavering grace. Her lively spirit earned her the affectionate nickname “Pistol Joan.”

At just four years old, Joan survived the Sheffield Blitz of December 1940, when her hometown was bombed during World War II. She spent the next seven years as an evacuee, living in the countryside—including time in Youlgreave—until she was finally reunited with her family only because she recognized her grand dad.

Joan met her beloved husband, Delmas Henry Shields of Belmont North Carolina, an American Air Force serviceman. The two were married on December 22, 1956 and together they built a life in America.

Settling in Stanley in 1975, Joan worked with dedication as an activity coordinator at Guardian Care in Gastonia, NC. She took great pride in her work, always bringing creativity, joy, and a nurturing spirit to those around her.

A true Englishwoman of the Catholic faith through and through, Joan had a deep love for sewing and could often be found making curtains for her home or table linens for her church. But perhaps nothing brought her more daily delight than a proper cup of tea—brewed just the right way. Some would say that the secret to her youthful glow at 90 might have been the two pots of tea she drank each day (sometimes with a cheeky shot of brandy, back in the day.)

Joan was preceded in death by her loving husband, Henry; her two beloved sons, Mark and David; her parents, Joseph Clinton and Florence Harper; her siblings Roy, Derek, Gordon, Iris, Doreen, and Florence; and her cherished neighbors and friends, Teresa and “Tommy Toes.”

She is survived by her beloved Yorkie, Milo, who was always by her side; her sister, Christine of England; her grandsons, David and Justin; several great grandchildren and nieces, including Maxine of England.

Joan also leaves behind many dear friends who became like family: Adam, Lyndsay and Grayson; Rhonda “Tiddly Winks” & Gary, Margaret “Maggie Mae” & Chris “Chrisy Poo”, “Ricky Ticky”, along with all her other friends at the beauty salon; Cheryl, Dr. Rodger’s and friends at CaroMont Family Medicine in Stanley.

A heartfelt thanks to Joan’s care team—especially the compassionate nurses and doctors at VIA Health Partners of Lincoln County and also Huntersville Rehab Center — for their support and care in her final days.

Joan Clinton Shields will be remembered for her fierce spirit, sharp wit, warmth, and the way she always knew just how to make a proper cup of tea. She was a survivor, a caregiver, a friend, and a force to be reckoned with. She will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege to know her.

Memorial services in Joan's Memory will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Benson Funeral & Cremation Services, Mt. Holly. Visitation to follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to VIA Health Partners, Lincoln County, 7845 Little Ave, Charlotte, NC 28226.