Joan Dolly Stokes

Joan Dolly Morehead Stokes, a woman of deep faith, creativity, and enduring love, was born on April 11, 1934, in London, Ohio, to the late Reverend Jack Sr. and Minnie Morehead. From the very beginning, Joan’s life was rooted in family, faith, and purpose—values that would guide her journey for 92 remarkable years.

Raised with strong spiritual foundations, Joan spent her early years in Pennsylvania, where she attended school and later graduated from Mount Union High School. Her connection to faith only deepened over time, as she became a devoted member of AME churches throughout her life. Her love for the Lord was not only something she believed—it was something she expressed beautifully. Joan was a gifted songwriter and poet, using her words to reflect her devotion, her experiences, and the depth of her spirit.

Joan’s life was one of connection and care. She cherished her family deeply and carried herself with a quiet strength and thoughtfulness that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Reverend Jack Sr. and Minnie Morehead, who laid the foundation for the woman she would become.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her family: her sisters, Reverend Dr. June Marable, Jacqueline, and Evangeline Morehead; her brothers, Jack and Carlos Morehead; her loving granddaughter Markeita M. Sanders; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who were all touched by her kindness.

She is also survived by Allen K. Thornhill Jr., Darrell (Jacqueline) Thornhill, Renée Thornhill Taylor, Brett Thornhill, Jessica (Robert) Davis, along with 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren—each a living testament to her legacy.

Joan had a special way of making people feel seen and valued. She was consistently thoughtful, always keeping her nieces, nephews, and cousins close in heart and mind. Her presence brought comfort, her words brought inspiration, and her love brought unity.

Today, we remember Joan not just for the years she lived, but for the life she filled those years with—faith, music, poetry, and an unwavering love for family. Her story does not end here; it continues in every life she touched, every word she wrote, and every memory held dear.

Visitation will be held at Crown Hill Funeral Home, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, US, on May 2, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will follow 12:00 pm with live streaming available at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c26041006797992.