Joanie Ruth Chavis

Joanie Ruth was born to John Marshall Blalock and Zelphry Louise Ward on February 16, 1935 in Monroe County, Georgia. In Joanie's early years, she was raised in Juliette Georgia. At a young age, Joanie migrated with her mother and siblings by train to San Francisco, California, as her Father obtained work in San Francisco.

Joanie accepted Christ at an early age and her family became members of New Providence Baptist Church in San Francisco. She united with several congregations in the bay area, over the years. On April 8, 2012, she united with the Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Fairfield, CA, under the pastorate of Dr. Claybon Lea, Jr., and maintained her membership until her passing.

Joanie is a graduate of Polytechnic High School in San Francisco, held membership in local social clubs, and joined marches in San Francisco for equality in the workplace.

Joanie lived and worked in San Francisco until she married her husband Clarence Chavis on August 26, 1967. The couple originally resided in Oakland and soon relocated to their home in Hayward, California. While in Hayward, Clarence and Joanie raised their two sons, Clarence and Darrick.

After several years, Joanie decided to re-enter the workforce. She worked various positions as a receptionist until she landed a position in Alameda County where she worked in the Social Services Department until retirement. Joanie was known among her peers as having a pleasant voice, and great personality.

The great loves of Joanie's life were her family. She always encouraged the family to stick together and loved to host holiday events and family reunions. Joanie loved to encourage her family and friends to do better. She was a member of various organizations including the Red Hats Society and a life member of the National Council of Negro Women. Joanie also had a love for travel which included RV trips with the family and cruises.

One of Joanie's favorite sayings was ""It's nice to be nice."" Throughout her challenges in life, especially in the later years, she kept a positive personality and continued to encourage others.

Joanie was preceded in death by her husband: Clarence Chavis; her parents: John and Zelphry Blalock; her sisters: Doris Ward and Louise Martin, and brothers: Larry and Richard Blalock.

Joanie leaves to cherish her memories her children: Clarence and Darrick Chavis;

Daughter in-law Vonda Chavis, grandchildren: Moreah Chavis, Darrick Chavis Jr., Kailah Chavis, Caleb Chavis; great-grandson: Moziah Fisher; siblings: Margaret Clemons and John Blalock, and a host of friends and other acquaintances.