JoAnn Hembree MacDonald

1937 - 2025

JoAnn (Marchetti) Hembree MacDonald
August 28, 1937 - October 21, 2025
JoAnn MacDonald, 88 years old, passed away suddenly on October 21, 2025 in Santa Rosa, CA.
Preceded in death by her parents, Ellery and Margaret Hembree and her husband, Norman MacDonald.
Survived by daughters Debbie Adams (Steve), Julie MacDonald (Kel-deceased) and Michelle Meislahn (John). Sisters, Linda Kim (Ken-deceased) and Joan Lipscomb (Sam). Grandchildren Alexis (Matt), Max (Keri), Maya and great-granddaughter, Lia and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.
JoAnn was born in Santa Rosa, attended Burbank Elementary, SR Jr High and SR High School. She and Norman met in junior high, married after high school graduation and were together until his death in 1989. While raising their girls, she was active as a volunteer, Room Mother, Girl Scout helper and PTA member.
After moving into the neighborhood, JoAnn began working at Brook Hill Elementary in 1973 as an instructional assistant, special education assistant and eventually Office Manager. But her main job was actually "hostess with the mostess" as she loved planning and organizing amazing luncheons and parties for the staff.
Becoming a widow too soon, she turned her energy to community service. She became involved in the Assistance League of Sonoma County Auxiliary, where Julie was also a member. She also served as a Board member for her beloved SRHS Foundation. Her love of parties extended to this part of her life, too, as she relished being a part of the ALSC annual tea fundraiser and SRHS Foundation Polenta Dinner. She even started a small catering business "Catered Affairs" with her dear friend, Linda Riegel.
She took great joy in making her house beautiful for all holidays. She hosted many bridal showers and baby showers with every detail executed beautifully. Many looked forward to her annual Christmas Open House.
JoAnn loved adventures. She loved to travel and enjoyed live entertainment. Many of her dear friends became travel partners. She and Norman visited Hawaii often. She made several trips to Italy where she and her cousin, Theodora had many adventures.
JoAnn loved her sports teams. She was an avid SF Giants fan, attending whenever she could. She was a 49er faithful and Warriors fan. She finally attended her 1st Warriors game at 87 years old.
JoAnn loved life and though her health challenges increased over time, she refused to let it stand in her way. Her girls, grandchildren and great-granddaughter were her great joys in life and she was proud to acknowledge every important milestone and accomplishment.
Thank you to all her family and friends for spending time with JoAnn and calling to check up on her. A special thank you to Carol Guanella for always being there when she was needed.
A celebration of life will be held on Nov 16th.
Please email damacda@aim.com for details.