Jo Ann Lumsden

JoAnn Turner Lumsden, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on July 12, 2024, at the age of 89. JoAnn was born on November 7, 1934, in Roanoke, Virginia, to Ruby Belle and Elmer Carlton Turner. She was a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering love, whose life was a testament to the power of kindness and dedication to family. Her strong Christian faith provided a solid foundation throughout her life. JoAnn taught each of her children about Christ but most importantly can be credited with teaching her son, Rich the importance of prayer and would always pray with Rich and his sisters each night before going to bed. Her Christ-based life was evident is all aspects of her life and could be found in all of her relationships.

In 1954, JoAnn married the love of her life, Richard Elbyrne Lumsden, a U.S. Naval officer. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three wonderful children, Catherine Anne, Elizabeth Jane, and Richard Jr.

As a Navy wife, JoAnn embraced the challenges and opportunities that came with her husband's career. She managed their household with exceptional skill and grace, providing stability and love during their numerous relocations and Richard’s nuclear submarine deployments. Her strength and resilience were a source of inspiration to her family and to the many military families she supported through her volunteer work and community involvement. So much so, she considered her greatest honor to be that of a Navy wife.

JoAnn's love for her family was boundless, and she took great pride in being a supportive wife, nurturing mother, and doting grandmother to her eight grandchildren and great-grandchild. Her generosity and selflessness left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel special and loved, and her home was always a warm and welcoming place.

JoAnn had a profound love for literature and was an avid reader throughout her life. She found great joy in immersing herself in books. JoAnn was also a devoted fan of Masterpiece Theater, rarely missing an episode. JoAnn is survived by her children, Catherine Lumsden, Elizabeth (Barry) Baity, and CDR Richard (Michele) E. Lumsden, Jr., USN, Retired; her grandchildren, Dr. Sarah (Dr. Kurt Barringhaus) Slone, Joseph (Charissa) Siler, Olivia, Jackson, Charlotte, Levi, Wyatt, and Ruby Belle Lumsden; and her greatgrandchild, Tyler Slone. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband.

A celebration of JoAnn's life will be held on a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to American Heart Association (www.heart.org), Samaritan's Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org), and The United States Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation (www.usna.com) in memory of Captain and Mrs. R.E. Lumsden, USN, Retired, Class of 1952.

JoAnn Turner Lumsden's legacy of love, kindness, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the beautiful life she led. JoAnn's life was a testament to the strength of Jesus Christ. Her family will forever be beholden to her for the values she instilled in them. Fair winds and following seas, JoAnn. Rest well, your work on Earth is done.