Joan Frances Leath

Joan Frances Leath, or Joannie to her friends and family, was born on October 18th, 1961 in Queens, New York to Yolanda and Louis Seipel. She was the 1st of four siblings and took her responsibility as a big sister very seriously - always quick to help with homework or babysitting. After graduating from Fountain Valley Highschool in California she attended child psychology courses at Orange Coast College. On October 6th, 1990 Joannie married Billy Ray Leath and the two welcomed their 1st baby girl, Shanna, that spring. Four years later they were blessed again with another baby girl, Rachel. After 14 years of wild adventures, traveling, home and business ownership and parenthood, Joannie and Billy separated. During this time she struggled to maintain relationships, and became estranged from many of her loved ones. It wasn't until she met Reggie, that Joannie was able to find love and acceptance and rejoice in community once again.

Joannie had many passions: cooking, dancing, and crafts were among the top three. When asked what personal accomplishments she was most proud of she would often boast about all the homemade Halloween costumes she created or the elaborate dinner parties she cooked for and planned meticulously. She adored all genres of music and would often sing quite loudly and off-key, especially in the car when dropping her daughters off at school. Recently her hobbies included Sunday night football (she and her brother share an obsession with the Cowboys), shopping for home decor and inordinately long phone calls.

She had an infectious laugh, a razor-sharp wit, and a warm and affectionate nature.

Joan was preceded in death by her father. She is survived by her mother, Yolie, her two daughters, Shanna and Rachel, her three siblings, George, Josh and Annabel and her many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A chapel service will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 5:00 pm in the Westminster Memorial Park Main Chapel. Arrangements under the direction of Westminster Memorial Park, 14801 Beach Blvd. Westminster, CA 92683. (714) 893-2421