Joan C. Rightley, 87, of New Hanover Twp., passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2016 in Phoenixville Hospital. She was the wife of 65 years to James J. Rightley Sr.
Born in Philadelphia, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Catherine (Carr) Cunius. Joan was a graduate of West Catholic High School. She was employed for many years as a telephone operator for the former Bell Atlantic Telephone then Verizon before retiring. In addition to being a Telephone Operator, Joan was also in the Annoyance Calls Division and played a key role in the rescue of a small child who was kidnapped.
She was a member of St. Teresa of Calcutta R.C. Church where she played an active part in the Senior Women's group and Volunteer Services for the BTC Annual Fair.
Joan and her Jim were avid Round Dancers and were part of several dance groups in Delaware County.
In addition to her husband she is survived by her children: James J. Rightley Jr., of Prospect Park; Susan R. Oehlert and husband Glenn, of Phoenixville; Anne M. Rightley, of Devon; Joan R. Laufer and husband David, of Pleasant Gap; Catherine M. Chappelle and husband David, of Royersford; 15 Grandchildren and 12 Great-Grandchildren. She was also predeceased by a son Stephen Rightley and her siblings, Charles "Bud" and Robert "Bob" Cunius.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2016 at 11:00 am at St. Teresa of Calcutta R.C. Church, 256 Swamp Pike, Schwenksville, PA. Officiating will be Rev. Paul C. Brandt. Calling time is on Wednesday at the church from 9-10:45 AM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of America by visiting .