Her love for animals, especially dogs, began early in life. She always had a pet dog and was a constant supporter of many animal causes.
She loved to travel, in fact her husband of 61 years called her "gypsy". She may have been infected with wanderlust as a child as her parents moved frequently, following farm jobs, giving the opportunity for new beginnings and new adventures.
She met her future husband, Tom Elia, at a dance, where he wrote her number in the dust on his car a 1948 green Pontiac. As luck would have it, only one number was smeared and he was able to track her down. They married and had two children, Kimberly and Thomas Jr.
Joanne was an excellent cook and homemaker in addition to working full time her whole life. She was an avid reader and stylish dresser.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband.
A Memorial Service will be held at Stephens & Bean Funeral Chapel on Saturday, July 21, 2018, at 11:00 a.m.