Joan Jean Tomlinson

Joan Jean Tomlinson of Caro, age 94, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Timberline Lodge in Caro. Joan was born September 22, 1931, in Caro, the daughter of the late Dorr and Elsie (Cliff) Jayne. On March 2, 1951, Joan married Donald Tomlinson in a beautiful ceremony at the Jayne family home. Together, they shared nearly fifty-nine devoted years of marriage until Don’s passing in 2010.

Joan worked for many years as a telephone operator, a role that perfectly suited her pleasant voice and patient manner. Outside of work, she enjoyed relaxing with a good book, a competitive game of euchre, and cheering on her beloved Detroit Tigers. She was also a longtime member of the Caro Moose Lodge, where she formed many treasured friendships.

For nineteen wonderful winters, Joan and Don traded Michigan’s cold and snow for the warmth and sunshine of Florida, creating memories they carried with them always.

Joan is survived by her daughter-in-law, Brenda Tomlinson of Caro; two grandchildren and their spouses, Jenn and Todd Brick, and Bobby and Megan Tomlinson, all of Midland; and three great-grandchildren, Haden Brick, Ellie Tomlinson, and Alexa Tomlinson. In addition to her parents and husband, Joan was preceded in death by her sons, Terry Tomlinson and Dean Tomlinson; and her brother, Keith Jayne.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro with Pastor Randy Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow at Indianfields Township Cemetery in Caro. Joan’s family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at noon. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to Timberline Lodge or Residential Hospice.