JoAnn Reed

JoAnn Reed, 97, passed away peacefully at her home in Cornelius, NC on October 18, 2023.  Her daughter, Sandy Purves was at her side.

JoAnn was born in Kansas City, MO on September 4, 1926 to Allene and Emil Lykke.  She was preceded in death by her brother Billy Lykke and sister Shirley Kroeneke.  JoAnn is reunited with her husband of 59 years, Lt. James Edward Reed, U.S. Navy.  She is survived by her daughters, Sandra Sue Purves, Linda Maureen Hamilton, and Phyllis Reed Melfa (Phil).  She leaves her loving impression on seven grandchildren, Elizabeth Purves, Erin Purves (Laney), Jonathan Hamilton, Jennifer Hamilton, Christine Blake (Terry), Whitney Ochab (Matt), Matthew Melfa (Kami); nine great-grandchildren and several extended family members.  

As the wife of a Navy pilot, JoAnn and her family were able to enjoy living in several parts of the United States.  She enjoyed working as a physician's assistant, the fashion element of retail sales, and mothering her children and grandchildren.

JoAnn had a zest for life that was truly infectious.  Her vibrant personality and witty sense of humor brought happiness to all those around her.  She had many beautiful qualities.  She was demure, elegant, and nurturing.  To JoAnn,  family was everything.  She found immense joy in being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.  JoAnn dedicated her life to ensuring the happiness and well-being of her loved ones.  One of the beautiful traditions that JoAnn relished was having her family come together over meals, especially during holidays (and let's not forget the holiday cocktails).  

JoAnn truly enjoyed embracing the joyous moments in life with her family, from caring for grandchildren to family vacations to Dancing with the Stars.

To honor JoAnn's life and legacy, a visitation service will be held on October 22, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Raymer - Kepner located at 16901 Old Statesville Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. This will be followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at the same location.  She will be laid to rest at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, alongside her husband, on October 24, 2023 at 1:00 PM. It is an opportunity for all those whose lives were touched by JoAnn to come together, reminisce about cherished memories, and find solace in each other's presence.

JoAnn Reed was a remarkable woman who will always be remembered for her wit, humor, and unwavering love for family.  Her legacy of warmth and laughter will continue to shine bright in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her.  May she rest in eternal peace.