Joan M. Bush

I remember the first time I met Joan when she was interviewing for the position of Principal at Richmond Heights. I liked her instantly and could tell from that moment that she was someone very special. I had no idea what an impact she would have on the students and staff at our school, but most of all on myself. She spent countless hours working with the students to bring up our test scores. She developed a special rapport with our staff and everyone loved her. Sometimes I almost expect...

To: Bush Family,
Joan Bush was a friend. She will be missed. She was unique. Always impeccably dressed, Joan presented herself with dignity and grace.

Joan had a no nonsense approach to everything in which she engaged. Coupled with this strong will was a sweetness and understanding. Whether it be helping a fourth grader solve a math problem, listening to a story from a first grader or sharing a beer after work with her staff. Joan was a confidant to many of us. She lent a...

Dear Friends,
Thank you all for the good wishes and the wonderful sentiments about Joani. Brian, Kyle, I and the family loved hearing from you. She was an amazing woman and will always be in our thoughts and our hearts.
I can assure you that Joani fought her cancer with every last breath she had. Her resolve and tenacity have been an inspiration to all those who shared her fight. While we all miss her with every aching part of our hearts we are comforted to know that...

My mentor and dearest friend,

Joanie... I did it!!! A year and half of driving out to PA for classes... I passed the adm.test for both PA and Ohio. I owe so much to you for showing me what leadership skills I have in myself. Each day I live by your example and someday will lead through your example. I laugh each day and enjoy the kids just like you did. A screaming monkey flies by every once in a while (Kathy got one for Adam!). Your big stuffed dog, Otis, keeps you in my...

It was a privildge to work with Joan these last 2 years. She had such a heart for kids, and always challenged them to think and grow. She implemented a program here for helping prepare our 3rd graders for the Achievement tests ~~ and it paid off! Our buidling received its highest score in years!! She was not only an educator, teacher, principal, advocate for children, but also a friend. It was a joy for me to laugh and share silly stories together, to help brighten our days.
One...

To my sister,

Hey there, I just want you to know that I was truly amazed at how many people you touched throughout your life. To me you were my big sister who always always looked out for me throughout my life. You are the strongest person I know and Brian and Kyle were very lucky to have you as a mother. You raised two great boys and that in itself is a testament to how you lived your life. I love you, miss you and you will always be in my heart. I will make good on my promise and...

Mr. Bush, Brian, and Kyle,
I am so sorry to have heard about Joanie. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
She was the BEST boss I ever had! May the sun shine on her eternally.....

I was fortunate enough to get aquainted with Joan through the Butternut PTA. I never got to know her on a personal basis but it does not matter because whether you were a stranger or a life long friend she had that aura of authority that you just could not help but to respect! She had a unique love not only for her own children but for all of those she worked with through the years.

Generally speaking most people will say that the loss of a child is the worst tragedy one can face...

My Hero (Joan Bush)-
If it was not for my Mom I would not be the person I am today. Everything that I have accomplished in my life so far is because of my Mom. When I was very little I always had a dream of being a pilot. Ask anyone who knew me as a kid and they will tell you that. Unfortunately I was born with a learning disability, and in second grade I was told that I was not smart enough for something like that. I was told that I would never finish high school. Thank goodness...