Joan Jones, a beloved family member and friend, passed away peacefully September 14th, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories.Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Ss. Peter & Paul Church on October 22, 2026, at 11am with visitation begining one hour prior in the church foyer. Burial at Calvary Cemetery will immediately follow the service.Joan, affectionately known as Joanie, was born March 7th, 1944 along with her twin brother John to Leslie T. Jones and Eleanor A. (Friedrichs) Jones. The twins were the third and fourth children born out of a family of 15.

Joanie grew up on the family farm in Hungry Hollow, where she helped her mother tend the garden and lovingly kept after her many brothers and sisters. Family was an important part of Joanie's life, and she carried that caring spirit with her throughout the years!

Joanie attended public school until the age of 16, when she transferred to Faribault State School, where she remained until the age of 20. For most of her adult life, Joanie lived independently with the assistance of SILS, which helped her with day-to-day activities and supported her independence.

Joanie was employed full-time at MRCI, where she truly enjoyed socializing, making friends, and being part of the workplace community. She took great pride in the work she did and continued working until her retirement.

Outside of work, Joanie treasured the time she spent with her significant other, Dean, until his passing. She also had a love for checkers and puzzles. Joanie was the undisputed queen of checkers-a keen problem solver who saw things from her own unique perspective. Her determination, personality, and ability to find her own way through a challenge were qualities that made her special to those who knew and loved her.

In the final year of her life, Joanie moved into an Intermediate Care Facility with Harry Meyering Center, where she truly thrived. She embraced her new home and the people around her, finding joy in the friendships, activities, and community that became such an important part of her life. Her time there brought out her wonderful personality and gave her many opportunities to connect, laugh, and simply enjoy each day.

Joanie had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome and cared for. She embraced life with warmth, humor, and a generous spirit, and she found joy in the people around her. Her laughter and the little moments she shared with family and friends will be remembered and treasured for years to come.

Joanie's greatest legacy is the love she gave so freely. She created memories that will continue to bring smiles and comfort to those who knew her. Her family and friends will carry her spirit forward by celebrating life, loving one another, and remembering all the ways Joan made the world a brighter place.

Though she will be deeply missed, Joan's life is not defined by her passing, but by the many years of love, friendship, laughter, and joy she gave to others. She leaves behind a beautiful collection of memories and countless people whose lives are better because they knew her. Joanie will be remembered with smiles, gratitude, and, above all, love.

Joanie is survived by her siblings: Leslie Jones of St. Stephens Church, Virginia; David Jones of Nutrioso, Arizona; Thomas Jones of Camp Verde, Arizona; Samuel and Patricia (Steen) Jones of Mesa, Arizona; Patrick "P.J." Jones of Mankato, Minnesota; Rose and Tony (Pinson) of Sierra Vista, Arizona; and Lucy Jones of Phoenix, Arizona; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Joanie was preceded in death by her father, Leslie Jones of Judson, Minnesota; her mother, Eleanor Jones of Mankato, Minnesota; her brother, Dennis Jones of Payson, Arizona; her twin brother, John Jones of Oceanside, California; her sister, Susan (Jones) Funfsinn of Mankato, Minnesota; her brother, Eugene Jones of Mankato, Minnesota; her sister, Laura (Jones) Young of Glendale, Arizona; her sister, Julie (Jones) Dieteman of St. Clair, Minnesota; and her baby sister, Mary Jones of Mankato, Minnesota.