Dr. Joan May Moran, age 91, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Denton Village Nursing Home. Born on January 1, 1935, in Lake Forest, Illinois, to Frank and Rose Moran, she was the third of four sisters.

Dr. Moran’s early education began at St. Mary’s Elementary School, followed by her graduation from Lake Forest High School. She devoted herself to lifelong learning, ultimately earning a doctorate in Education. Her career led her to Denton, Texas, where she served as a professor at Texas Woman’s University. Dedicated to her students, she organized multiple Catholic pilgrimages to Rome, enriching their educational and spiritual experiences.

Beyond her academic contributions, Dr. Moran generously volunteered her time as a tax trainer and preparer for AARP. Her deep Catholic faith was central to her life, guiding her involvement with numerous Catholic parishes in Denton and the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth. She served with distinction on the Diocesan Advisory Council and was a valued member of the Bishop’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Catholic Schools.

For over two decades, Dr. Moran contributed her expertise as a permanent member appointed by the pastor to the Immaculate Conception Catholic School Advisory Council. She held key roles including Finance Chair and participated in the school’s Building Committee, which oversaw the completion of the school in 2002. Among her many talents, Dr. Moran was a skilled embroiderer, creating a notable piece of the Blessed Mother that is proudly displayed in the school office.

In honor of her dedication and generosity, the Joan Moran Scholarship has provided tuition assistance to students at Immaculate Conception Catholic School for more than 20 years, continuing her legacy of support and faith.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. John Paul II Catholic Church, located at 909 McCormick Street, Denton, Texas. The Rosary will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. Dr. Moran will be interred at the Immaculate Conception Church Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Joan May Moran Scholarship Fund at Immaculate Conception Catholic School, 2301 N. Bonnie Brae Street, Denton, TX 76207.

Dr. Joan May Moran’s life was marked by education, faith, and service, leaving a lasting impact on her community and all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.