Joanne Fisher
1935-2022
Joanne Adler Fisher was a woman of many names and titles: daughter (born to Mathilda and Elmer in 1935), mom (to Susan, Paula, John and Robert), mother-in-law (to Andy, George, and Lorraine), JoJo (to grandkids), teacher (elementary and Sunday school), colleague (30+ years at Tootsies), guiding light (to many women seeking recovery), advocate, book lover, patron of the arts, blown glass aficionado and collector, mahjong maven and, most importantly, confidante and friend.
She passed away peacefully, after a brief illness, on Monday, January 3, 2022 with her children beside her.
Graduating from Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1952 and the University of Pennsylvania in 1956, Joanne was an active participant in academic and extracurricular life. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and was a proud member of Pi Lambda Theta and Kappa Delta Epsilon honorary societies. During college she met Dr. Peter Fisher on a blind date, and the young couple was married on June 17, 1956.
As they say in Texas, "I wasn't born here, but I got here as quick as I could." That's exactly what Joanne and Peter did – moving to Houston in 1956 so Pete could do his residency under the renowned Dr. Michael Debakey at Baylor College of Medicine. Here, they had 4 children in 4 years, and raised their family.
When her oldest child was old enough to drive, Joanne walked into Saks Fifth Avenue and applied for a job. She found her second career and calling! The real magic happened when Mickey Rosmarin, the owner of Tootsies, convinced Joanne to come work for him. She had more than an eye for fashion; she had a knack for making every customer feel special. It was her energy, warmth, and genuine style that made her so beloved by her customers and those who worked with her. She retired from Tootsies at the young age of 75.
Mother was a title she held in high esteem. Her children were her pride and joy, and it showed every day. She loved creating a beautiful, inviting home to which she warmly welcomed friends and family. While her kids were growing up and with their friends always welcome, the neighborhood knew there was always something happening at the Fishers' house.
Joanne was fiercely independent and resourceful. She enjoyed an active social life and a wonderful network of friends. Highlights included playing weekly games, attending the Opera, Symphony, Ballet, and movies, looking at art and trying new restaurants. She loved to travel and celebrate the special occasions of family and friends. Her global adventures took her to Cuba, Thailand, Vietnam, the Yucatan Peninsula, France and England.
She was a voracious reader and relished learning about history and discussing current events. Joanne was smart and opinionated but thoughtful, wise, and interested in others.
Being a "JoJo" to her nine grandkids seemed to be the role for which Joanne was destined. She was generous, kind, insightful and loving to her adoring brood. She celebrated each, and every family member in a special way. She loved giving gifts and delighted her family with many surprises. More than anything, JoJo's gifts were those of self-love and affection, wisdom, guidance, reminders that family comes first, love is endless and unwavering, and beauty is all around us.
Joanne is survived by her children, Susan Fisher Palace (Andy), Paula Fisher Baldwin (George), Dr. John Fisher, Robert Fisher (Lorraine) and her grandchildren, Lauren Palace, Jay Palace, Kate Sonsma (Bryan), Andrew Baldwin, Jacob Baldwin, Abby Baldwin, Emily Fisher and Noah Fisher.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, January 9,2022 at 1:00 pm CT at Congregation Beth Yeshurun. 4525 Beechnut Street, Houston, TX 77096. Streaming Option: www.bethyeshurun.org/praying/live-stream. Choose Freedman Levit.
Donations in memory of Joanne Fisher can be made to the following organizations:
The Council on Recovery (www.councilonrecovery.org)
The Jewish Federation of Houston (https://houstonjewish.org/tribute)
Seven Acres (www.sevenacres.org)