Joanna Marino Orlando

Joanna Marino Orlando, age 66, a loving wife and mother, passed away on January 20, 2021 due to a long battle with a rare form of dementia. She was born on September 21, 1954 in Houston, Texas to John and Ann Marino. She graduated from Incarnate Word Academy in 1973. Joanna met the love of her life, Louis Orlando, at a high school talent show and they were inseparable until the end. Louis and Joanna resided in northwest Houston, where they raised their two daughters, Kristy and Louann, and 3 dachshunds, who were Joanna's pride and joy.

Joanna worked for Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District for 24 years before retiring in 2010. During those years, she cherished unforgettable memories and gained many lifelong friendships, including Donna Klare, who was her "angel on earth" and friend for over 35 years.

Joanna loved to stay busy. Her free time was spent shopping, going to movies, lunch with friends, and simply enjoyed a good card game. One would often hear of Joanna taking trips to Louisiana to the casinos and her competitive spirit would be evident if you ever brought her to a bowling alley.

Joanna was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her daughters and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Mimi. She absolutely loved cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events, there wasn't a game she would miss. Joanna had a glowing smile and loving heart that reflected on her children and everyone she met. Her devoted husband and soulmate for over 46 years, Louis, was by by her side through every step of her illness. Joanna felt the compassion, patience, and unconditional love from Louis until her last breath.

Joanna is preceded in death by parents, John and Ann Marino. She is survived by her husband Louis, two daughters, Kristy Briscoe, husband Mike, and Louann Pereira, husband Andre. Adored Mimi of four grandchildren, Micah and Owen Briscoe and Julia and Kate Pereira. She is survived by her sister Roseanna Mensik, husband Donnie, Uncle Frank Marino, several brother and sister-in-laws, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. All of these she loved and touched deeply.

The family would like to extend a thank you to Baylor Neurology, Dr. Melissa Yu and Dr. Mary Kenan, Hilarity For Charity, Alzheimer's Association, Home Instead (Anjanette and Judy), Faith Care (Annie, Denise and GG), and Amazing Grace Hospice (Amy and Delmy) for all their support and care in Joanna’s final chapter of life. The family could not have done it without you.

Please join us in celebrating Joanna’s life and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Visitation will be held at Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home (13102 North Freeway Houston, Texas 77060) on Wednesday, January 27th from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM with Rosary being recited at 6:30 PM. Funeral Mass Arrangements will be held at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church (11507 Huffmeister Road, Houston, Texas 77065) on Thursday, January 28th at 12:00 PM and burial following at 2:00 PM at Earthman Resthaven Cemetery (13102 North Freeway Houston, Texas 77060).

Flowers are welcome, however please consider a donation in Joanna's name to the Alzheimer's Association or Hilarity for Charity (www.wearehfc.org).