JoAnne Kay Garner

JoAnne Kay Garner, a cherished pillar of the Middleville community, passed away peacefully in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on March 5, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on February 11, 1940, in Hastings, Michigan, she was a proud graduate of the Thornapple-Kellogg class of 1957. JoAnne was known throughout the Middleville area for her 15-year career selling Avon products and for her active involvement in the community. Above all, she was a devoted single mother whose warmth and steadfast love shaped the lives of everyone around her.

A consummate homemaker, JoAnne filled her home with the simple joys she treasured most: reading, watching her favorite soap operas, and caring for her beloved cats, Butch and Sundance. She delighted in meeting new people, going out to eat at local restaurants, and indulging her love of history. Her skilled hands were rarely idle, as she spent many happy hours crocheting beautiful pieces that will be treasured by her family for generations. Known affectionately as “Jolo” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she brought laughter, humor, and kindness to every gathering.

JoAnne is survived by her children, Erin (Henri Laime) Fouty, Frank (Sandy) Garner, Narda (Larry) Smith, Abby Taylor, and John (Heather) Garner; her grandchildren, Ryan (Rachel), Kali (Adam), Travis (Keley), David, Rachel (Matt), TJ (Kalia), Amy (Nate), Jessica, Ronnie (Scottie), Chris, Rockwell, Willow, Jake, Sarah (Jon), and Isaiah (Olivia); her 16 great-grandchildren; and her nieces and nephews, David (Dawn) Irwin, Sandy (Rob) Grasso, and Markus (Janice) Irwin. She was preceded in death by her father, David L. Irwin, her mother, Betty (Clarence) Rosenberg, and her brother, David “Bob” Irwin.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, a lasting testament to the enduring power of family, friendship, and community.