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Joanne Eubanks Obituary
A passionate advocate for arts education, Joanne dedicated nearly three decades of her career to the Ohio Arts Council, where she championed countless programs and initiatives as Director of Artist in Residence program before retiring in 2011. She earned her bachelor's degree in dance from The Ohio State University and went on to teach modern dance at the Columbus College of Art and Design, inspiring many young artists along the way.
Her artistic talents extended far beyond dance. Joanne was an accomplished oboe player, serving as first chair for the Cleveland Women's Orchestra. After auditioning for Leonard Bernstein, she was accepted into the Juilliard School of Music, an honor she cherished deeply, even though she ultimately chose a different path.
Joanne will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was charming, funny, and kind, with an infectious passion for life and a profound desire to help others. Her warmth, wit, and generosity left an imprint on all who knew her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mary Jane Smith. Joanne is survived by her loving husband, Ray Eubanks; daughter, Kristen Eubanks; son, Erik (Mandy Dangerfield) Eubanks; and cherished grandchild, Ryder Jane Eubanks. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy Renshaw; niece, Alex (Brad & Madeline) Morrow; and nephews, Matt (Kerry, William & Andrew) Green & Josh Green; and relatives Tom & Nena Green.
A small celebration of life will be held by the family in the summer of 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fry Out Cancer in Joanne's honor: fryoutcancer.org/collections/donation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joanne Eubanks
Jane Woodard
January 21, 2026
My prayers are with Joanne´s family at this difficult time. I knew her when our sons were growing up in Hardesty. She was such a generous positive person and an inspiration to me. A very special lady who will be missed.
Debby Rockwood
December 15, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Joanne's passing. She was such a joy to work with at the Ohio Arts Council when I applied for Ohio Arts Council grants for Lancaster City Schools. She ensured that we had all the information and knowledge we needed to be the recipients of many wonderful 2 week residencies in our schools. What a difference she made to the many students and staff who learned so much from these residencies in dance, music, and the arts. Thank you Joanne! Your legacy lives on in so many ways, including in my heart.
Helen Kim
December 14, 2025
Erik and Kristen, I'm so very sorry for your loss. I have such wonderful memories of your Mom, and everything she did for our community. She was the most selfless person, always making sure everyone was happy and cared for. She was such a great role model and always cultivated and supported artistic expression. I have so many fond memories of her at the pool, taking us to movies and concerts. She was such an influential person in my life, and I was so thrilled to be able to take her dance class at CCAD. May she rest in peace now, but she'll always continue to live on in my memories.
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Diane
December 14, 2025
Loving memory
Lynn Woodard
December 13, 2025
Erik and all your family,
I'm so sad to hear of your mom's passing. Our Good Lord certainly gave you some lasting memories through Thanksgiving. I learned many things about her through this obituary...she was an amazing lady and my loss in never meeting her. My prayers continue now as you journey through your grief. May God hold you in His embrace. Chuck will welcome her into the peace of understanding. My love, Lynn
Michael & Wanda Phillips
December 12, 2025
Ray,
There are no words to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family from the loss of your beloved family member. Please know that Wanda and I will pray for strength as you go through this difficult time.
Sandy Mathias
December 12, 2025
I always remember Ray sharing Joanne stories around the faculty lunch table at Capital. Her smile always lit up a room. May beautiful memories of this beautiful person bring comfort to you all; now, and, in the years to come.
Mickey Abbey
December 11, 2025
My memories of Joanne go back to our childhood...probably because our mothers were best friends growing up, and our parents stood up at each others weddings! We called each other cousins, and we were pretty old before we knew otherwise!
Our fondest memories being made on Pine Lake Michigan where we had family cottages.
I´ve always admired Joanne for her many talents, and will certainly miss our periodic visits by phone and of course best when we met up in Michigan and Ohio! Mickey Abbey
Sharon Dangerfield
December 11, 2025
She was one of the most loving and generous persons I know. She will be greatly missed.
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