She was born on March 10, 1941 to Leo and Irene Nelson in Minneapolis. She grew up in Fridley and attended high school there. JoAnne graduated from University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. With her education, she was a teacher, followed by executive secretary for First Banks Systems, Piper Jaffray and Medtronic.
She enjoyed painting, cross stitching, gardening and ceramics.
Survived by her husband, Richard Gray; sons, Dan & Dale Perrington; daughters, Jen & Shelby Gray; brother, Donald Nelson; sisters, Betty Mitchell and Debra Dawson; and nieces and nephews.
Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Sunset Funeral Home, Minneapolis at 11:00 AM. Visitation will begin at 10:30 AM. Burial will be at Sunset Cemetery following the service.