Joan E. Pence age 85 of Garrett, IN died Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at her home. Joan was born May 3, 1931 in DeKalb County to Barron W. and Vivian (Kennedy) Helbert and they preceded her in death. She married Bernard L. "Benny" Pence on July 8, 1950 in Garrett, IN and he died September 9, 2013. Joan worked for Cooper - Auburn, IN for 8 years and for G.E. - Fort Wayne, IN as a payroll clerk for 15 years, retiring in 1983. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church - Garrett, IN. Joan is survived by 2 sons and daughter in-laws: Stanley K. (Tonda) Pence, Garrett, IN; David A. (Suzette) Pence, Ft. Wayne, IN; daughter: Julie A. Corbin, Garrett, IN; 6 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson; 3 brothers: George (Lois) Helbert, Grand Rapids, MI; Michael (Jane) Helbert, Albion, IN; Gary (Linda) Helbert, Garrett, IN; 3 sisters: Sharon (Paul) Christlieb, Ft. Wayne, IN; Sue Sweet, Garrett, IN; Judy (Leonard) Vanderbosch, Mead, WA. Joan was preceded in death by her husband: Bernard L. "Benny" Pence; son: Steven L. Pence; parents: Barron W. and Vivian Helbert. Visitation will take place from 1-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Thursday, February 23, 2017 at Thomas Funeral Home, 1277 C.R. 56, Garrett, IN A service will take place at 1 p.m. Friday, February 24, 2017 at Thomas Funeral Home - Garrett, IN with Fr. Jim Shafer officiating. Private family burial will take place in Christian Union Cemetery - Garrett, IN Memorials are to St. Martin's Healthcare or Multiple Sclerosis Association You may send a condolence or sign the on-line register book by visiting: www.thomasfuneralhome.org Arrangements entrusted to Thomas Funeral Home - Garrett, IN