Joanne Louise Nottebart

Joanne passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on September 2, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on July 29, 1936, in Milford, Massachusetts, to Elma Ernestine and Donald Sterling Wilson. As a young girl, Joanne enjoyed collecting dolls from around the world, listening to radio shows with her brother, and visits from her beloved Nana and Grampy Thibault. She worked at the ice cream bar, played the saxophone in her high school marching band, and later attended beauty school. After graduating in 1954, she married her high school sweetheart, Don.

Don's baseball career took them to several states before they eventually settled in Houston, where they built a home and raised four children. Their house quickly became a gathering place for family and friends alike, filled with laughter and love. Joanne fondly remembered her time working at "The Party Shop," a Hallmark store in Braeswood Square.

In the 1980s, Don and Joanne retired to their family lake house, affectionately known as "The Camp," in New Hampshire. Summers there became a cherished tradition, with kids and grandkids visiting often. Joanne stayed busy and social, working at K-Mart and Green Mountain Furniture and hosting themed parties for friends and family on the lake. In later years, she and Don spent winters in Texas, where they enjoyed watching ball games, listening to music, and spending time with their ever-growing family.

Joanne especially treasured visits from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often baking and cooking their favorite treats. She loved reading, watching her favorite TV shows, and sharing stories. Strong-willed and quick-witted, she was the proud matriarch of a diverse and loving family.

Even after being diagnosed with dementia in 2021, Joanne never lost her gift for storytelling. She often laughed at herself while retelling her "greatest hits," her most beloved memories, and found joy in "puppy-sitting" two of her great-grand-dogs each day.

Joanne is survived by her brother, David Wilson, and his wife, Andrea; her son Ron and his wife, Cathy; her son Dan and his wife, Dawn; her daughter Donna and her husband, Dan; eleven grandchildren - Daniell, Rob, Wes, Brian, Sam, Daniel, Scott, Steven, Samantha, Michael, and Shannon - along with their partners; and twelve great- grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years, Donald; her son, Robert "Bobby" Nottebart; her brother-in-law, Reigh Nottebart; and her sister-in-law, Elaine DeMerchant.

The entire Nottebart family would like to express heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. A private memorial service will be held at Klein Funeral Home in Tomball, Texas. In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions in Joanne's memory may be made to a charity of one's choice.