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Joann Reeves Obituary

REEVES, JOANN Joann Reeves, 49, died on June 28, 2014, in Englewood, CO, following a short hospitalization. Joann loved the Grand Rapids community, attending many downtown events and serving as the unofficial cheerleader of Festival of the Arts, as publicity co-chair of the event, and as a member of its Board of Directors. She was also a member of the Press Club of Grand Rapids, and volunteered for ArtPrize. For many years, she worked as public relations director for Girl Scouts of Michigan Trails. She graduated from East Grand Rapids High School and Aquinas College. Survivors include her mother, Sally Reeves of East Grand Rapids, father, William (Jeannette) Reeves of Whitehall and Phoenix, AZ; sister, Meredith (Matt Steers) of Boise, ID; step-sister, April (Dave) Hoffman, and their children, Erin, Jacob and Julia, aunt, Julie Reeves Johnson and her late husband, Norman; and their sons, Matt and Scott. She was preceded in death by her Aunt Joann Daunt Chandler Jenkins and the late James Chandler. A Celebration of Joann's life will be held on Thursday, July 17 at 7 PM at Saint Mark's Church, Division at Pearl Street, downtown Grand Rapids. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Festival of the Arts (festivalgr.org), Craig Hospital (craighospital.org), or the charity of your choice. The family extends special gratitude to her caregivers in Colorado and in Grand Rapids, the security team at Plaza Towers, and Steven Afendoulis. Joann was a bright light and an inspiration to all who knew her.

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Published by Grand Rapids Press from Jul. 6 to Jul. 13, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Joann Reeves

18 Entries

Shelly Loose

June 30, 2025

I think of Joann often! She was my first "wheel" friend! She encouraged me and gave me hope that I could still have a life with a SCI!

Linda Nemec Foster

June 30, 2019

Remembering Joann with a smile on my face and a glow in my heart.

Sally Miller

August 1, 2014

I was sad to hear of JoAnn, I can't think of JoAnn with out thinking of hard work and fun. God bless JoAnn and her family.

July 24, 2014

Sally and family,
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of your Joann, through the AQ leaflet. Please know of my thoughts and prayers. May she rest in Jesus' arms. Hugs, Jeff and Cindy (Wilcome) Patin - AQ

Linda Nemec Foster

July 20, 2014

Sally, I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your wonderful daughter, Joann. I remember her fondly from the first time I met her when you used to live on Wilshire and you and her would exercise together up and down the block. Beautiful memories of a vibrant woman! I also remember seeing her at the Art Festival numerous times--she was so dedicated to that event over many years. She was admired by a lot of people in the community. Please know that you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. Tony also sends his sincere condolences.

Bobby Hurd

July 17, 2014

Dear Reeves Family,

I was so sad and shocked to hear about JoAnn. She was a wonderful person. I was grateful to work with her at Festival of The Arts for 6 years. I was very greatful for letting me volunteer for 6 years. She will be missed.

Sister Rosemary O'Donnell

July 12, 2014

Dear Sally and Reeves Family,

Words cannot express my sadness at the loss of dear Joann and the grief that all of you must be feeling.

I cherish my memories of Joann as a student and a friend. She was an unending source of inspiration. She will be deeply missed by many who loved her.

You are in my prayers.

Peace and Love, Sister Rosemary

Alice Dodgson

July 11, 2014

Dear Reeves family,
I was sad to read about JoAnn, but also proud to have known her. I admired her spirit, always a smile and positive attitude. My sympathy and love to all of you,
fondly, Alice

Jennifer VanderLaan-Brower

July 10, 2014

It has been many years since I saw Joann but I sure thought of her often. She was so sweet to me and my kids, I took care of her at night and she was gracious enough to invite my children and myself to view fireworks with her several times. She was a fantastic person and truly an inspiration to many. She will be missed but remembered fondly.

Juliette Cowall

July 10, 2014

"The place you live in is that much more drab and empty that (she's) gone. I guess I just miss my friend ..." Red (Morgan Freeman) from "The Shawshank Redemption"

Dollie Grant

July 9, 2014

To the Reeves Family,

I was shocked to hear the news. Her strength, energy and quick wit was admired by many. Prayers and blessings to the everyone during this difficult time.

July 8, 2014

My Heart is Heavy, But God Has truly Received An Angel! Joann was a inspiration to me. We laughed, cried, gave each other advice and had Fun! I LOVED Joann! To The Family My Sympathy Goes Out To You All & Prayers.

Shelly Loose

July 8, 2014

My heart is sad! Joann was my motivator 27 years ago! She came in to visit me at Mary Free Bed when I was a "new" quad. She had her makeup on and hair curled! She was beautiful! I asked her how she did her makeup, when she told me she did it herself I went to therapy after lunch and said "I need to figure out how to put on makeup, if Joann can do it, so can I". That was a pivotal moment in my life! She really helped me become what I am today, I always found myself, trying to make her proud! She truly made a difference in this world!! I will miss her and keep rolling to make her proud! Her family has my deepest sympathies!

Cynthia Miskura

July 7, 2014

I respected her stamina and spirit.

Mary K. and Jeff Hoodhood

July 7, 2014

Joann always had that bright smile and a twinkle in her eye. She had a wonderful zest for life and was always so giving. She will be sadly missed.

Lindley Cole (Appel)

July 7, 2014

I am deeply saddened to learn of Joann's death. I've known her since she, her sister and my children grew up at Grace Episcopal Church. I send my love and sympathy to Sally, Meredith, Bill and Jeanette and all her family. We know that the souls of the righteus are in the hands of God. May she rest there now, in eternal Peace.

Marcia VanderWoude

July 6, 2014

I knew Joann from Plaza Towers and the Press Club. I loved her smiling face and amazing attitude despite her difficulties. She will be deeply missed and I am keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers.

Nancy Mangus

July 6, 2014

I want to express my deepest sympathy in the loss of your daughter and sister. I knew JoAnn through my daughter, Mary Ann. JoAnn was a dear friend and I will miss her. I know your faith in God will help sustain you through these trying hours. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.

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