Joan Exon

Joan “Bonnie” Exon peacefully passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on April, 9th 2026. She was born in Chicago Illinois on November 13th, 1942 to Phyllis and Walter Wallace. She grew up in Round Lake, Illinois where she attended Round Lake Senior High school. The eldest of 5 siblings, she was always kind and nurturing. Joan had a way of making those around her feel loved with a smile that felt like a warm hug.

In high school Joan met the love of her life, James Exon. The couple married September 7th, 1964 sharing a beautiful 62 years of marriage. Joan and James had two sons they adored, James (“Jimmy”) and David. Her son’s were her greatest joy whom she loved larger than life. Joan and James loved family vacations with their children. In later years, she and her husband enjoyed to traveling to reenactments and other activities.

In 1974, they moved from Lake Villa, Illinois to Boca Raton, Florida. Joan continued to make the world a better place not only in her personal life, but professionally. In 1988, she began working for the City of Boca, later becoming a Code Compliance Specialist. After 27 years of dedication to her city, Joan retired in 2015 known for her enthusiasm of bettering her community.

The best start to her day was reading the daily newspaper and Joan enjoyed spending quality time with her family and friends, feeling an ocean breeze, and there was not a flower that did not make her smile.

Joan is proceeded in death by her beloved son, James (“Jimmy”) Exon; mother and father, Phylis and Walter Wallace; Brother, Walter (“Jibby”) Wallace; Nephew, Todd Wallace; Niece, Bridget Leeb Brown.

She is survived by her husband, James Exon; Son, David Exon; Sisters, Agnes (Dave) Bourland, Maryann (Michael) Preble, Judith (Dale) Leeb, sister-in-law’s JoAnn Wallace and Bev Exon; Along with many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members. All who loved her dearly will remember her for tender spirit and large heart.