Joan Hartman

On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Joan Renee Hartman, at the age of 74, was welcomed into heaven by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Joan was born on March 15, 1951, in Savanna, IL to Carlos and Catherine (Ross) Randecker. She graduated from Mount Carroll High School in 1969. She went on to attend Tennessee Temple University, graduating in 1973. During her time there, she met a terrific group of lifelong friends affectionately known as the "CJ4 Girls," friendships she treasured throughout her life. Joan later earned her Master of Science in Education from Northern Illinois University in 1995.

On June 16, 1973, Joan married the love of her life, Russell Hartman. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and service. Their home on the property affectionately known as "The Hill" became a gathering place for countless family celebrations and youth group get-togethers, filled with laughter, faith, and lasting memories.

Joan devoted her professional life to teaching, pouring her heart into her students and fostering a lifelong love of reading. Her commitment to faith was equally strong. She faithfully served in her church community as a Sunday school teacher, AWANA leader, youth leader, and Vacation Bible School volunteer. In recent years, she also served as President of the Resident Council at The Pointe Assisted Living Facility, where she brought warmth, leadership, and her signature hospitality. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and residents at The Pointe and The Grove in Jacksonville, IL for enriching Joan's life in her golden years.

Joan was known as the "queen of Midwestern goodbyes," never letting a visit end without one more story, one more hug, or one more reminder of her love. She was an avid reader and talented quilter, and she delighted in teaching her grandchildren new skills and cheering them on in dance, volleyball, hockey, and a love for animals. Nothing brought her greater joy than being "Grandma."

She is lovingly survived by her children: Sarah (Steve) Ford of Jacksonville, IL; Kipp (Laura) Hartman of Cottage Grove, WI; and Annalee (Kevin) Kostrzewski of Kalamazoo, MI. She was a proud grandmother to Savanna and Emma Ford, Kipp Jr. and Lilianna Hartman, and grand-dog Delta.

Joan is also survived by her siblings: Jean "wombmate" Cooper, Susan (Gary) McMillen, Sharon Schultz, Linda (Allen) Pauley, Karen (Jeff) McDearman, and sister-in-law Carol Randecker.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Russell; her parents; and her brother Jerry.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 14, 2026, at the Church of God in Mount Carroll, IL with visitation at 2:30 pm until the time of the service starting at 4 pm.

Joan's legacy is one of unwavering faith, devoted love for her family, and a life joyfully given in service to others. She leaves behind a family strengthened by her example and a community made better by her presence. The Williamson Funeral Home in Jacksonville is assisting the family. Condolences may be left online at www.airsman-hires.com.