Joanne Theresa Stevenson

Joanne Theresa Mary Kelly Stevenson passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, May 16, 2026, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Joanne was the eldest of five children and shared a special bond with her twin sibling.

Joanne was a devoted single mother who worked hard to build a life for her family. Later in life, she returned to school and earned her bachelor’s degree, an accomplishment that reflected her perseverance and determination. She was an example to her children and those around her to keep growing and never give up.

She went on to work for the City of New York, first serving women in a Manhattan women’s shelter and later working with the Bureau of Child Support. She had a heart for helping others, especially women and families facing difficult circumstances. Her compassion and dedication to serving others remained a constant throughout her life. She was also an active volunteer with the Soroptimist International, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping women and girls in need.

After retirement, Joanne relocated to New Jersey, where she fully embraced life, family, friendship, and adventure. She loved to travel with her family and dear friends and was always ready for wherever the next adventure might lead. Friends often joked that all it took was a morning phone call suggesting a spontaneous road trip, and she would be packed and ready within the hour.

Her travels brought her to England, where she toured the world of Jane Austen, and to Jerusalem, where she walked where Jesus walked and was baptized in the Jordan River, an experience that deeply reflected her faith. She also made countless treasured memories with her grandchildren, taking trips where she enthusiastically tried new adventures like snow tubing and white water rafting. She approached life with courage and joy.

No matter where Joanne went, you could be certain she had at least one or two books with her, even more if her bag was big enough. Later, her Kindle became one of her favorite travel companions because it allowed her to carry an entire library everywhere she went. She had a lifelong love of reading, enjoyed working on crossword puzzles, and was always ready for a competitive game of Scrabble with anyone brave enough to challenge her. Her sharp mind, love of learning, and playful spirit were part of what made her so special to those around her.

Faith and community were central to Joanne’s life. For many years, she served as a greeter at church, where hers was often the first smile people saw when they walked through the doors. She welcomed everyone warmly and made people feel like family because, to her, they truly were. Her kindness, warmth, and ability to make others feel seen and valued left a lasting impression on so many lives.

She is the devoted mother of Steve Stevenson (Michelle) and Katherine Schell (John). Treasured grandmother of Marissa, Robynn, Gabrielle, Luke, and Hope. Adored great-grandmother of Angelo and Giovanni. Dear sister of Johnny, Kathleen, Patricia, and Connie. She will also be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and all who were blessed to know and love her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Memorial Service on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11:00am at Crossroads Worship Center, 190 Lambs Road, Sewell, NJ 08080.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation in Joanne’s memory. alz.org