JoAnn Wilkinson

JoAnn Wilkinson, born and raised in Nevada, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. She grew up on the family farm with her parents, Alvin Nelson and Ruth (Allen) Nelson, and her brother, John. She spoke fondly of childhood days spent with cousins and neighbors and of attending school in Fernald with a graduating class of just ten classmates, with whom she remained close for decades.

JoAnn's life was deeply rooted in faith and community. As a fourth generation member of the Central Presbyterian Church, she served in many roles over the years and treasured the lifelong friendships she built there. She and Max Wilkinson shared 17 years together and welcomed three sons, Kent, Kris, and Kim, whom she loved deeply.

Once her sons were in school, JoAnn worked at Donnelley's before taking the Civil Service test and joining the National Animal Disease Center in Ames, where she worked in the laboratory for 28 years before retiring in 1992. Retirement was rich and full, as she remained active in her community, volunteering with the River Valley Credit Union Board, the Auditor's Office, the Community Cupboard, United Way, and assisting with the Story County Hospital LTC newsletter. Her days were filled with service, faith, and deep devotion to the people she loved.

JoAnn had a genuine warmth and a gift for creating beautiful things. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, playing bridge with friends, and reading, rarely without a good book. She cherished her many dear friends, her extensive P. Buckley Moss collection, and her large extended family. She was known and loved by many, and her family will always remember her for her warmth, her loving kindness, and her unwavering devotion to Diet Coke.

JoAnn is survived by her sons, Kent Wilkinson, Kris (Sherry) Wilkinson, and Kim (Lynne) Wilkinson; her grandchildren, Kory (Erin), Kacie (Chris), Jacob (Emily), and Matthew (Hannah); and nine great grandchildren who brought her tremendous joy. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, John.

A service celebrating JoAnn's life will be held at the Central Presbyterian Church in Nevada on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior to the service. She will be laid to rest at the Nevada Municipal Cemetery in Nevada.

Memorials may be directed to the church she loved so dearly.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada has been entrusted with the arrangements for JoAnn. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.