Joanne Lee Whitfield's Obituary
DECATUR – Joanne L. Whitfield, 80, born in Des Moines, IA lived in Decatur, IL, passed away peacefully August 31, 2013 surrounded by her family holding hands during a prayer service.
Joanne devoted her life to her family and made daily sacrifices to enrich the lives of everyone around her. She was a warm and caring friend, a guiding light giving strength for her family, and a compassionate wife married to George Dwayne Whitfield for 62 wonderful years. After graduating from Des Moines High School, she studied at Richland Community College. She always found time to work with disabled children, teach water-skiing for the Red Cross, or share advice during life’s troubling moments. Joanne was an avid boater and water-skied in many ski shows performed in Des Moines and Decatur. Joanne also loved flower and vegetable gardening, cooking, reading every day, and playing with grandchildren.
Joanne is preceded in death by her father Robert (and Linda); mother Beatrice, and sister Nancy.
Surviving are her children, Craig (Gail) Whitfield, Stuart (Janet) Whitfield, Brian (Deb) Whitfield, and Jeff (Jean) Whitfield, extended family Lynn (Terry) Corley, Martha May Powell, Marcia Joanne Powell, Gary (Sue) Powell, Yolanda (Ken); Powell; grandchildren, Steve (Laura) Whitfield of Brownsburg, Chris (Mary) Whitfield, Lisa Jo (Joey) Webb, Holly (Jason) Henderson, Lisa M (Brian) Miloser, Brandon (Joni Hayes) Whitfield, Lindsey Whitfield, Danielle Corley, Michelle Corley, Katie Corley. Great Grandchildren Gavin, Megan, Karlee, Logan, Brynlee, Dakota, Whitlee.
Instead of donations, we ask that you make the time to spend a day with your mother or with a family member.
Graveside service to celebrate Joanne’s life will be 2 PM Wednesday, September 4, 2013 in Graceland Cemetery with Pastor Wray Offermann officiating.
The family of Joanne L. Whitfield is being served by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Avenue, Decatur, IL. View the on line obituary and send condolences to the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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