Joan Marie "Joanie" Anderson

Joan Marie Anderson (née Myers), lovingly known as "Joanie," passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, in Rockwall, Texas, at the age of 67. Born in Elk City, Oklahoma, and raised in Stephenville, Texas, Joanie's life was a beautiful reflection of love, kindness, and unwavering strength.

Described by those who knew her best as loving, generous, and endlessly compassionate, Joanie's legacy is one of selfless devotion and laughter that could light up even the darkest of rooms. Her care for others was boundless - a comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A woman of determination and grace, Joanie worked during the day, raised two children, and attended night school to fulfill her dream of becoming a registered nurse - a calling that perfectly embodied her giving spirit. Nursing was more than a career to her; it was an act of love and service that reflected who she truly was.

Joanie never gave up on the people she loved. No matter how hard life became, she was always there - steady, understanding, and without judgment. She'd give you the shirt off her back and the last dollar in her wallet, and she'd still find a way to make you laugh.

She was a breast cancer survivor, a fighter in every sense of the word. In her quieter moments, Joanie found joy in the simple things - reading a good book, coloring while watching *American Idol*, savoring the crunchy ice from Sonic, or just breathing in the nostalgic scent of Play-Doh. She loved animals deeply, even though she was allergic to most of them - that never stopped her from taking one in. She had a huge heart and a soft spot for anyone in need.

Joanie loved the beach, where she spent some of her happiest days with her husband and friends, soaking in the sun and the laughter that always seemed to follow her. She was a foodie at heart, a lover of life's small pleasures, and a reminder that joy can be found anywhere if you take the time to see it.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ellsworth Anderson; her children, Heather Elliott , Robert Heath Elliott and Nicole Elliott; her beloved mother, Geraldine Lindley; her siblings, Melinda Myers-Betik, MaryAnn Ray, Jane McClellan, and Scott Myers.

She is preceded in death by her father, Jolly Myers.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. , and a funeral service will follow on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. , both at Rest Haven Funeral Home in Rockwall, Texas. A reception celebrating Joanie's life will take place afterward at her home, 3 Norman Trail, Rockwall, TX.

Joanie's warmth, humor, and boundless love will live on in all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and a reminder to always love without limits.

"How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."

- Winnie the Pooh