Joanne Linnea Chappell

Joanne Linnea Chappell was born on January 21, 1944, and passed away on February 23, 2026. She is survived by her husband of nearly 60 years, Jeff Chappell; her children, Todd and Kris; and her grandchildren, Kyle, Zaira, and Sebastian.

Joanne grew up in Turlock, California, where she attended elementary school and high school. She was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning a Life Teaching Credential. After marrying Jeff in 1966, life took them to Germany during his military service and later to Pittsburgh. They eventually settled in Stockton in 1972, where they opened a Baskin-Robbins together.

While raising her children, Joanne devoted herself to family life - attending swim meets and soccer games, supporting piano lessons, volunteering at school and church, and caring deeply for her children in countless ways. She also brought joy to many as “Scoops” the clown at children’s birthday parties and later, with Jeff, as “Rocky and Roada” at University of the Pacific volleyball and basketball games, much to the amused embarrassment of their teenage children.

As her children grew older, Joanne returned to her passion for teaching. She taught first grade at Cleveland Elementary School and Monroe Elementary School. Over her 25 year career, she was known for her tireless dedication, endless lesson preparation, and unwavering commitment to helping every child succeed, especially those struggling to read.

In retirement, Joanne remained as active and generous as ever. Known affectionately by her grandchildren as “Mima Jo” or “Gangsta Granny,” she filled her days with meaningful projects—reading to her grandchildren, making scrapbooks, framing Jeff’s photography, and celebrating all things friends and family. Above all, Joanne will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, compassion, and unconditional love.

A celebration of Joanne's life will be held at Lincoln Presbyterian Church at 11am on March 7th, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local literacy program in her honor.