JoAnn was born on October 7, 1936 and passed away peacefully on November 25, 2023, knowing her loving family was by her side offering her love and comfort in her final days. JoAnn was a lifelong resident of Southern and Central California, only briefly residing in Red Bank, NJ.
JoAnn was born and raised in South Pasadena, CA. The oldest of six children and the last one to leave this earth. JoAnn had a variety of careers, from the medical field to interior design. She continued working until she was 80 years old. She owned and operated a clothing boutique prior to retiring to Paso Robles, CA. Once in Paso Robles, CA she continued part-time work in interior design as well as the beauty industry. She had a larger-than-life personality and lit up every room with her storytelling skills. She was an amazing country cook, a self-proclaimed foodie, a sports enthusiast and a fan of rock n roll. It wasn’t uncommon to have lunch with her and start talking about what she was whipping up for dinner. She was a lover of high fashion and was known for her sense of style, flaming red hair, perfectly put together outfits and was never seen without lipstick.
Of all the careers she held, she would be the first to tell you Mother was her favorite title as she loved and cared deeply for her family. She raised three children, stepped up and stepped in to help raise her twin grandsons and many of her beloved nieces and nephews. She was a huge animal advocate and consistently donated to many different rescues throughout her life. She was the backbone and light of her family. She will be deeply missed.
JoAnn is survived by her three children, Amber Graves-Welsh (Tommy), James Patrick “Bud” Graves (Sheri), Janet Graves Sad (John), stepson, Ted Shepard (Louise), grandchildren, Travis Sad, Cody Sad, Justin Graves, Victoria Houston, Amy Putman, Michael Shepard, Traci Siriprathane, Crystal Gallo and Jack Welsh along with their families consisting of fourteen great grandchildren, five great, great grandchildren as well as her cherished nieces and nephews.
She is predeceased by her infant son, Joseph Michael, her first husband Ted Graves, her brothers, James, William, and Robert Ehrlich, sisters, Judith Ann Wharton, Virginia Grant and step-son, David Shepard.
Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13th from 11:00 – 1:00 PM with a Memorial Service beginning at 12:30 PM at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701. A private interment will take place this summer in South Pasadena, CA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite animal rescue in her name.
