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Joanie Sullivan Obituary
JOANIE (Akers) SULLIVAN
Joanie Sullivan passed away May 20, 2011 peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous fight with ALS (Lou Gerhig's Disease). She managed ALS with the same dignity and grace with which she lived her life. Retired from Sears, Joanie volunteered many hours at SERVE, Inc., as a Board member and working tirelessly for those in need. Her many rescued cats provided her with purpose and companionship. Joanie's playfulness, smile and dancing eyes could light up any room and will be missed by many. She was predeceased by her parents and a brother. Joanie is survived by special relatives John and Debbie Blanford who cared for her until the very end, Sarah Blanford, Jean Blair, Frank Wampler, three siblings, a number of nieces and nephews, and Alma, Lindy and Gracie Perry-Garnette, loving friends and caregivers. There will be a celebration of Joanie's life Saturday, June 11, 2 to 4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Manassas, VA. In lieu of flowers, please donate to: Commonwealth Cat Rescue Inc., 4122 Leonard Drive - Suite 300 Fairfax City VA 22030. For more information call: (336) 404-3341.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joanie Sullivan
Lindy
May 30, 2023
Joanie, so hard to believe it has been 12 years since you left us. Seems like yesterday that your eyes were dancing with that mischievous grin you wore most of the time. You are in my thoughts frequently and I will always miss you, my friend. Lindy
June 26, 2011
Joanie I just learned of your passing today (June 26,2011). Even though I didn't keep in touch with you and Deb you are still part of my life. You had the greatest giggle in the world. You made life at Sears White Oak lively. To her family (especially Debbie) my sincere condolences. Susan Davis (Woodbridge, Va.)
Lindy Garnette
June 20, 2011
Today, on the one month anniversary of Joanie's death, there is such an emptiness that I feel. She was so special to so many, mainly because she made everyone feel special - she made each person feel like they were the most important. Joanie, what an honor to be able to walk your last months with you. You died with the same grace, dignity and playful sense of humor with which you lived. Godspeed my dear friend, godspeed ............until we meet again.
Debbie Blanford
June 20, 2011
It warms my heart to read all of the wonderful comments from you all. Joanie would be pleased. From the time of my earliest memories, Joanie has been in them. She was my sister in every sense of the word and I was so fortunate that she chose to be with me in the last months of her life. She was able to live with and enjoy her best friends, Lindy, Alma and Gracie; visit with her sister, my mother, Jean; her brother, Dorris; her favorite niece, Starla - daughter of her precious brother, Odean; my daughter, Sarah (Joanie took great pleasure in telling her to call her Aunt Mother), and my husband, John, who made her laugh with his songs. She got so much joy from being with us all and we got to enjoy her laughter, beautiful smile and bright sparkling eyes until the end. I already miss her and will continue to miss her every day of my life. My sister, which is the name we bestowed on each other at a very early age, has left a huge empty spot in my heart. I love you, Joanie.
Priscilla Botsko
June 18, 2011
I only heard of Joanie's death today, June 16th. I knew Joanie years ago and lost track of her. She was such a wonderful person. Always had a smile on her face and so caring. If anyone would care to relate her later years to me I would appreciate talking to them. My brother worked with Joanie at Sears. Joanie was the person who got him a job with ALLSTATE. Priscilla
703 591-6273.
Theresa Hill
June 10, 2011
Thank you all for posting your love for my sister. We shall keep her in our thoughts and know that she is with the lord now and hurting no more. I will always cherish the precious moments I spent with her. God Bless! Theresa Hill
June 9, 2011
It is so hard to believe that my Aunt Joan is gone. She was one of the sweetest and nicest people that I knew. I will miss her greatly and I'll love her forever....I think of her everyday. Starla Clark Ball Kentucky
June 8, 2011
Joanie was a beautiful lady, we were honored to have known her. I know she will always be with you in your hearts, Theresa, Sherrie & Johnnie & Melissa - we love you all! Karen & Tim Bennett
June 8, 2011
Finally out of pain and at rest and home with our Heavenly Father. so sorry for your loss Theresa and family.
Connie Dorer
Denise Clark-Hall
June 8, 2011
Joanie has been an inspiration in my life since I was a little girl. I will miss her. Now she and my memaw (her aunt bea) can watch over us from heaven.
Alma Perry
June 8, 2011
I wish to extend to all of Joanie's family and friends my heartfelt thoughts and prayers. Joanie was an Angel on earth, helping all those in need. She always seemed to know the right thing to say or do to brighten someone's day. Now it's her turn to reap the rewards! Joanie will always be part of my heart, she was my Hero.
Diane Warren
June 7, 2011
To Theresa and family,
It is obvious that beautiful women run in this family. Prayers go out to you for your loss. I have lost both my parents and know how hard it is. She will always be with you.
Alicha Yankee
June 7, 2011
May your beauty shine forever now in Heaven. I know your family will miss you until it is their time to be with you again in Glory.
June 7, 2011
Joanie is so loved by her sisters Theresa and Sherrie and myself. We were very blessed to have her in our life. She will be missed everyday. We will celebrate your life on Saturday from Ocala, Florida We love you
Linda Hill
Bonnie & Sonny Tripi
June 7, 2011
To Theresa and family,
Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality. ~ Emily Dickinson
Always remember, when you look up, there's one more star in the night's sky and know that you have just another Angel to look over you and your family until you meet again. May Joanie be at peace now and in the house of God. She suffers no more.
Your friends,
Sonny Tripi
June 7, 2011
May you rest in peace. God bless your Family in this time of need.
Kathi Rivenburg
June 7, 2011
Losing one so loved is heartbreaking. Just remember the good times & your sister will be with you always.
Melissa Smith
June 7, 2011
I was blessed to have been a part of her life for a short time. I will always love and miss my aunt. She is in my thoughts and prayers. Melissa Smith
Sherrie Bliss
June 7, 2011
We are very blessed to have had you in our lives. We are very proud of you and all your accomplishments in life. You will be missed dearly! Your loving sister, Sherrie Bliss
June 7, 2011
I had the pleause of meeting Joanie several weeks ago. as her family walked into her room he smile lite up the place. she was a beautiful woman. bless her and her family.
Theresa Hill
June 7, 2011
Joanie will be missed by her family and friends. We all loved her very much and will miss her beautiful smile. She was such a loving and caring sister! I love you and miss you big sis!
Rest In Peace!
Theresa Hill
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