BELVIDERE, N.J. (Warren County) — The Warren County Clerk’s Office is mourning the loss of its longest-serving employee, Alice “Joannie” Wilson, who passed away on July 7 after a battle with cancer. She was 86.
Wilson began her career with the County Clerk’s Office on April 23, 1959, when she was hired by then-County Clerk John Bodine as an office assistant, earning $1.25 per hour. Less than a year later, she was promoted to clerk bookkeeper with an annual salary of $2,400. Over the next three decades, she held numerous roles, including positions involving the Superior Court, until her official retirement on December 31, 1992.
But her dedication to public service didn’t end there. Wilson returned to the office in March 1993 on a contract basis to oversee ballot layout and election canvassing for primary and general elections — a role she held for 10 years. In 2003, she was rehired part-time and continued to work in the office until her passing.
In total, Wilson served the Warren County Clerk’s Office in some capacity for 66 years, working under five different County Clerks. Colleagues described her as a respected figure known for her deep institutional knowledge, tireless work ethic, sharp attention to detail, and strong personality.
“She was a force to be reckoned with — a little bit scary, full of sass, and absolutely fabulous,” read a Facebook post from the County Clerk’s Office. “Her laugh was contagious. She will be very, very missed by us all. This office will never be the same.”
Wilson’s passing marks the end of an era for the Warren County Clerk’s Office, where she served as a steadfast presence and a mentor to generations of staff.
Per her wishes, funeral services for Wilson will be private, and there will be no public visitation.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Good Will Fire Company, 689 Water Street, Belvidere, New Jersey 07823; the Wounded Warrior Project, Donor Care Center, P.O. Box 758541, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8541; or the local chapter of the American Cancer Society in her memory.
