JoAnn Louise Bower

JoAnn Louise Bower, beloved wife, devoted mother, treasured grandmother, and dear friend, passed away on June 9, 2025, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. She was 56 years old. Born on January 21, 1969, in Akron, Ohio, JoAnn spent her childhood growing up in the tight-knit community of Lake Mohawk in Malvern, Ohio. It was there, at Malvern High School, that she met the love of her life, William "Bill" Bower. High school sweethearts, JoAnn and Bill were married on November 10, 1990, and went on to build a beautiful life together-literally-constructing their home in the very place where their love story first began. JoAnn's warmth, kindness, strength and sass touched everyone she met. She was a proud graduate of Malvern High School and pursued higher education at the University of Toledo before transferring to Kent State University. For over 30 years, JoAnn dedicated her professional life to helping others through her work as an Ophthalmology Technician at Eye Centers of Ohio. She also earned the title of "Booster Club Queen" during her years of tireless support for Malvern High School-raising funds, running the concession stand, and bossing everyone around to keep things running smoothly. Her spirit of leadership and love for her community made a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to serve alongside her. Above all, JoAnn's heart belonged to her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Bill, and their four children-Hilarie Bower (Tim Tasch), Tanner Bower (Carli Nicholson), Hannah Bower, and Lanie Bower. She was a proud and doting grandmother to Archie Bower and Sadie Tasch, who brought her endless joy and laughter. She also leaves behind her mother, Marilyn Grigsby; brothers Jeff Grigsby (Tina Steward) and Juston Grigsby (Stacey Corbett); and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Dwight Grigsby, who welcomed her with open arms. JoAnn's favorite moments were those spent surrounded by the people she loved. Whether she was boating on the lake with her family, snuggling up for a Hallmark movie-no matter the season-or playing with her grandchildren, JoAnn brought comfort, laughter, and love into every room she entered. Her passing leaves a deep void in the lives of those who knew and loved her, but her legacy of strength, love, and unwavering devotion to family will live on in each of them. A celebration of JoAnn's life will be held at the First Christian Church in Malvern on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Visitation will be held from 11am to 1pm with a brief service following. All who were touched by her presence are welcome to join in honoring her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Malvern First Christian Church, in JoAnn's name.