Helen JoAnn Nette

Helen Joan Nette (JoAnn) passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, at the age of 101.

She was a lively, strong woman who believed the keys to a good, long life were simple: take your “female vitamins,” stay active every day, try new things, have fun, and find contentment. She embraced life with energy and curiosity, living in many places around the world and always eager for her next adventure.

She started every morning ready to go: makeup on, hair in place, dressed to the nines. She made friends wherever she went and stayed social and independent well into her later years. Her resilience was legendary. Even after setbacks, broken bones, illness, and other challenges, she always bounced back. She gave back to her community by volunteering for many years at the White Elephant. She also loved to dance, and was still dancing at her 101st birthday celebration.

In her later years, she found joy in simple pleasures: a glass of wine, sweet treats, and good conversation. After moving from her longtime home in Green Valley to Silver Springs Assisted Living, she embraced the change wholeheartedly, excited about the food, the activities, and the new friendships. She was proud of how long she lived independently and approached every stage of life with optimism.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick, and her son, Richard.  She is survived by her daughter, Trish, six grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren living across Australia, Asia, and the US.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her boundless energy, resilience, and love of life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Valley Assistance Services or Pima Council on Aging (PCOA).