Joan Binder

Joan Binder was born to Mary and Joseph Wilson on July 10, 1928, in Plymouth, Indiana. She spent most of her life in Kokomo, Indiana, where she built a home and raised her sons, Fred and Jon. At a time when few women were starting businesses of their own, Joan opened her own real estate business and went on to enjoy a long and successful career in the profession. Throughout her real estate career, Joan received several awards and recognitions, including being recognized by the Kokomo Tribune for pioneering women in business and receiving a 45-year longevity award in real estate. She had a gift for making homes feel warm and inviting and found great joy in helping others find a place where they could truly feel at home. 

Joan had a beautiful way of making people feel welcome, valued, and special. She believed strongly in the importance of having a positive attitude and often encouraged others to approach life with that same spirit. Her faith was at the heart of who she was, and she found great joy in sharing her love of Jesus with others. Joan was also a wonderful cook, and preparing food was one of the many ways she showed her love. Whether she was sharing a meal, offering encouragement, or simply spending time with someone on her porch, Joan had a gift for making people feel loved. 

Joan loved her own home and took great pride in her yard and could often be found trimming and preening it to keep everything looking just right. She also enjoyed the constant companionship of her beloved Yorkies, Sir George and, later, Busby, who were always at her side. Her nearly 50-year friendship with Larry and Sharon Gist was also a special part of her life, and they were always there to help her throughout the years. In Joan’s final years, her granddaughter Susan was constantly by her side, lovingly supporting her and helping with her every need. 

Joan passed away on September 26, 2026, in Westfield, Indiana, at the age of 98. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Joseph Wilson; her sister, Betty Christie; and her son, Jon Binder. 

Joan is survived by her son, Fredrick (Karen) Binder; Jon’s wife, Patsy; her brother, Bill Wilson; her grandchildren, Susan (Ryan) Leininger, Julie (Shane) Bair, Jon Binder, and Matt Binder; and her great-grandchildren, Rachel Bair, Evan Bair, Anna Bair, Danielle Leininger, Ella Leininger, Nolan Leininger, Kyndal Binder, and Eric Binder. Joan’s faith, warmth, generous spirit, and positive attitude will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. 

Joan’s family will honor her life privately. There will be no formal memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Kokomo.