Mary Joann Tancredi

Joann Tancredi, widow of Donald R. Tancredi, was born to Lemuel and Eva Ivey Lockey March 1, 1941 in Saint Pauls, NC. Residing in Lumberton, NC with her family she enjoyed a happy childhood with her parents and three sisters: Faye, Libby and Judy. The family moved from Lumberton to Wilmington, NC where Joann completed her senior year of high school at New Hanover High School in 1959.

Joann went on to college at Toccoa Falls Bible College in Toccoa Falls, Georgia and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Christian Education. Joann began her teaching career in Onslow and New Hanover Counties, NC and later transferred to Brunswick County, NC for the remainder of her career. She was a much loved and well-respected teacher at Lincoln Primary School (now Lincoln Elementary School) for 27 years until her retirement after more than 40 years in 2004.

Joann won multiple teaching awards, most notably, “Teacher of the Year” at Lincoln Primary School. Upon receiving this award, she shared her philosophy on teaching, “I believe that each child should have the opportunity to learn in a comfortable and positive environment. He or she should be allowed to learn at their own level and be taught as an individual. He or she should be exposed to many strategies and teaching methods so his or her individual needs can be met. I feel that teaching is a great challenge and that is what I like about teaching. I believe students should be challenged to love learning and reach their highest goal.”

Joann put into practice her philosophy on teaching and in turn was much admired by her fellow teachers, parents of her students and most importantly by her elementary pupils. Throughout the years after retirement, while she grocery shopped or dined in a restaurant, Joann would often be recognized and approached by former students who were now adults thanking her for the encouraging and supportive teaching and mentoring she provided them.

Joann’s spirit of kindness and love followed her throughout her life. In 2005, Joann married Donald R. Tancredi, USMC, USAF Retired. Together they traveled to many places within the United States, but also abroad to Italy twice and to Japan. As a couple they loved to socialize by going to dances, bowling and attending the many events associated with their involvement in the VFW, American Legion and Marine Corps League.

Joann had a wonderful sense of humor and a smile for everyone. We will remember her anytime we smell sweets baking in the oven. She was an excellent baker and loved desserts--many of her recipes were included in local cookbook fundraisers. Family and friends will also recall her beautiful collection of Angel figurines. Precious and dear, Angels, like Joann, spread their love and light among us. She will be always be missed, yet we are certain that she is in God’s care. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Predeceasing Joann are her parents Lemuel and Eva Lockey, her sister, Billie Faye Chappell and her husband Donald R. Tancredi. Surviving Joann are her sister Elizabeth (Libby) Zeidner and husband Fred, her sister Judy Rackley, and numerous extended family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charitable organization of your choice or to: North Carolina Foundation for Public School Children also known as NCFPSC, 700 S. Salisbury Street, Raleigh NC 27601, www.ncfpsc.org.