Joan Cowen Bowman died on Sept. 21 with family by her side.

Born in Long Branch in 1932 to Edwin A. and Ruth H. Cowen, she led a remarkable life defined by curiosity, creativity and devotion to family and friends.

Joan was a graduate of the Baldwin School, Smith College and received an MFA from Sarah Lawrence at the remarkable age of 72. A gifted interior decorator, writer and consummate hostess, she had resided in Short Hills, N.J. since 1960, where she raised six children, following two divorces.

A fervent advocate for education, she ensured that her children and grandchildren received strong academic foundations while simultaneously providing them with memorable vacations and inspiring them to travel and continue their intellectual pursuits.

Over the years, she authored a weekly column on the secrets of successful home design for a local newspaper and published two memoirs: The Power of the Place and Some Kind of Lucky.

She loved Martha’s Vineyard, where she spent each July, and many of her essays were published in the Vineyard Gazette.

She was passionate about the arts and would frequently gather friends and family for meals and excursions to Broadway, the New York Phil, MoMA, Tanglewood and beyond. She approached party planning with the precision of an artist — sweating weather forecasts until all guests were comfortably seated, surrounded by delicious wine, food and laughter.

She had a special passion for modern dance and served on the board of the Paul Taylor Dance Foundation for many years, including roles as secretary and gala chair. Her signature style, grace and appreciation for beautiful design touched everything she did.

Endlessly curious about the lives of others, Joan had an extraordinary gift for friendship — once you were in her circle, she never let you go.

Sadly, Joan was predeceased by two sons, Derrik and Michael “Bo,” her parents and her brother, Edwin A. Cowen Jr.

She is survived by her children, Jim Hoitsma (Pam Callander), Lisa Favorini, Tom “Teke” Hoitsma and Jonathan C. Bowman, as well as grandchildren Jasper (Chelsea) and Sheyna Hoitsma, Jovi Pivar-Federici, Cruz and Pilar Hoitsma, great-grandchildren Camille and Sylvie Hoitsma and sister-in-law Connie Cowen.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Smith College, Sarah Lawrence, or the educational institution of your choice.

There will be a private celebration of her life.