Joan Marie Prew

Joni Buccellato Prew, of Denver, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026. Born in New Milford, Connecticut, to the late James and Katherine Buccellato, Joni lived a life defined by love, creativity, generosity, faith, and an unwavering desire to make the world a kinder place.

There are people who leave memories, and there are people who leave a legacy. Joni left both.

To know Joni was to truly love her. She had a smile that could light up any room, an infectious laugh, and a heart that knew no limits. She was funny, genuine, compassionate, creative, selfless, wholesome, and effortlessly one of the coolest people you could ever meet. She had an extraordinary gift for making every person feel welcomed, included, valued, and loved. Whether you had known her for decades or had just met her, she had a way of making you feel like family.

Her favorite words were, “You’ve got this." They were words of encouragement she shared with everyone, and they perfectly reflected the way she lived her life. Joni believed in people, lifted them up when they couldn't see their own strength, and never hesitated to drop everything to help someone in need. No matter what she was carrying herself, she always found a way to be there for others. Her generosity wasn't something she did—it was simply who she was. 

Above every accomplishment, Joni's greatest pride was her family. She was a devoted wife to Terry of 36 years and a fiercely loving mother to her daughter, Ali. Nothing brought her greater joy than seeing the people she loved happy, laughing, and thriving. She celebrated every milestone as if it were her own, carried every burden alongside them, and found her greatest fulfillment in their happiness. Her family was her heart, and she spent her life making sure they always knew they were deeply loved. 

Joni wore many hats throughout her remarkable life. She was an exceptional educator, inspiring students both in Connecticut and later at the Community School of Davidson. She was an incredibly talented Author and Illustrator, a rare combination of gifts that allowed her to bring her stories to life from the very first idea to the final page. She authored and illustrated: the six-book Animals in Natural Habitats series; Nine Holes with Gilly the Golfball, inspired by the beloved Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club and its founder; Twink and Sadie; The Great Pumpkin Race; and her fan-favorite adult picture book, Hell in Menopause. To create both the words and artwork that inspired children and adults alike was a testament to her extraordinary creativity.

Outside of writing, Joni's creativity seemed endless. She was widely known for her beautifully handcrafted gnomes, each one made with incredible detail, personality, and love. Her whimsical creations brought joy to countless homes and became treasured keepsakes for so many. She also lovingly created memory pillows, t-shirt quilts, and memory pets that provided comfort to families honoring the lives of loved ones. Whatever she made with her hands, she made with her whole heart. 

Joni found happiness in life's simple blessings—being with her family, gathering with friends, gardening, baking, cooking, golfing, running the farmers market, spending time as a proud member of Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club, and loving her cherished animals: Marley, Teddy, Camber, Lily, and Salem. More than anything, she loved making people smile.

She is survived by her loving husband, Terry Prew; her devoted daughter, Alexandra "Ali" Prew; her brothers, Michael Buccellato, Mark Buccellato, and Joseph Buccellato; her aunt, Alice Hurtle; and the countless friends who became family throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Joseph Buccellato and Katherine Fallman Buccellato.

The day before Joni passed away, she received the proof copy of what would become her newest book—one final reminder that she was doing what she loved until the very end. Even in her final days, she was creating, dreaming, and sharing her gifts with the world. 

Joni's legacy will forever live on through the lives she touched, the students she inspired, the friendships she nurtured, the stories she wrote and illustrated, and the love she so freely gave. She made the world brighter simply by being in it, and those fortunate enough to know her will carry her kindness, creativity, and her simple reminder—“You've got this."—in their hearts forever.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Lake Forest Church – The Box, Huntersville, North Carolina. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Circle Time Productions to help publish Joni's final children's book. Receiving the proof of this book the day before she passed made its publication especially meaningful, and your support will help fulfill one of her final dreams while allowing her love of storytelling to continue touching the lives of children for years to come.

Some people spend their lives asking what they can accomplish. Joni spent hers asking how she could make someone smile. In doing so, she accomplished more than she ever realized.

Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home & Cremation Services is caring for the family.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.KepnerFH.com