Joann S. Heymann

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joann Heymann, fondly known as Jody, who left us peacefully on December 29, 2024 at the age of 92. Born on August 30, 1932 to Henry Sternberg and Dorothy Helman in Chicago, Illinois, Jody's life was marked with love, compassion and dedication to family and education.
Jody's early years were spent across various cities including Chicago, Pensacola and McAllen, Texas. She began her academic journey at the University of Texas where she earned a degree in business and accounting. Wanting a career where she would be able to spend more time with her children, Jody decided to go back to school and pursue a master's degree in Education from Texas A & I University in Kingsville, Texas. She continued her educational pursuits through classes at Purdue University, Trinity University and the University of Houston reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning.
In her personal life, Jody met and fell in love with Dan Ellis while studying at the University of Texas. After graduation, they moved to Corpus Christi, Texas and owned Dale Drugs, a full service drug store that they operated together. They had five children, three boys and two girls.
Later in life, she married Dr. Hans Heymann. Hans was the love of her life. The two of them enjoyed many joyful years together until his passing in 2000.
Jody's legacy is intertwined with her unwavering devotion to her family and her profound impact as an educator. She began her teaching career at Roy Miller High School where her warm smile and kind heart endeared her to her students and faculty alike. Jody was not just a teacher; she was a mentor, a friend and a beacon of inspiration. Her exceptional reputation led her to a professorship at Del Mar College where she ignited a love for literature and creative writing for countless students over her forty two years teaching there. In recognition of her remarkable contributions, she was honored as a Professor Emeritus.
Jody was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Dr. Hans Heymann, and her beloved son, David Michael Ellis. She is survived by her four devoted children: Stan Ellis (Lynn), Terry Ellis (Jewel), Leslie Matney (Larry) and Debbie Hammond (Remy Rodriguez). Jody's spirit lives on through her nine grandchildren-Dr. Tammy Saunders, Jenny Sather, Dr. Avi Dunn, Boaz Ellis, Yoav Ellis, Jonathan Harris, Jillian Harris, Holly Hammond, Hunter Hammond-and her thirteen great grandchildren, all of whom she adored deeply.
Joann's beautiful soul touched the lives of many, radiating a light that will forever shine in our hearts. She will be remembered for her kindness, her passion for teaching and the love she shared so generously with everyone around her.
A visitation will be held from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Seaside Memorial Chapel, followed by a memorial service at 1:30 pm. We invite all who knew and loved Jody to join us in celebrating her remarkable life.