Joyce Ann Free

1935 - 2026

Joyce Ann (Bowers) Free, 91, of Fort Wayne, IN, went home to be with the Lord on January 23, 2026, Friday, January 23, 2026, at Saint Anne Home, Fort Wayne. Born in Frankton, she was the daughter of the late Clemens and Inez (Bowers) Free and was a 1954 graduate of Frankton High School. She then earned a teaching degree from Ball State Teachers College and a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin. For 40 years, she loved teaching second grade students at East Allen County Schools, retiring in 1998. She also loved her nieces and cousins as well as her many close friends. She enjoyed storytelling, crafts, chalk art, dressing in costume and cooking for themed dinners. Throughout her life she held closely her faith in Jesus. She was a faithful member of several churches throughout her life and has been blessed by her church family at Blackhawk Ministries since 1977. She is survived by nieces, Laura Sharry and Linda Aldridge. She was also preceded in death by her sister Barbara Hughes.

Memorial service is Noon Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Blackhawk Ministries, 7400 E State Blvd, Fort Wayne with visitation one hour prior. Burial in IOOF Cemetery, Frankton. Preferred memorials Blackhawk Ministries Mission Fund. Family would like to thank the staff at Saint Anne's for the past month of wonderful care. For online condolences please visit www.harperfuneralhome.com