Joann M York

She was born July 16, 1936 in Pekin to Rolland and Florence (Geralds) Reed. She was raised by her grandmother and step-grandfather, Elizabeth (George) Nichols.

Joann married David E. York on August 11, 1956 in Pekin.  He died May 10, 2007 in Pekin.  She was also preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

Surviving are 1 son, David Joel York of Pekin; 1 daughter, Brenda Stowell of Pekin; 2 grandchildren, Sean and Autumn; 3 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, Priscilla Simpson, Connie Foust and Vicki Burns; 1 brother, Rolland Reed of Pt. Ritchie, Florida; and several step-sisters and 1 step-brother.

Joann worked for Keystone Steel & Wire Company in Bartonville for 24 years, retiring in 1996 from custodial and housekeeping.

She was a member of Driven Church, First Assembly of God in Pekin, where she was a longtime Sunday school teacher and a member of the Sonshiner’s Group.  Joann also served as a visitation minister with husband, David.

Joann will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. Her great-granddaughter, Willow, was the greatest joy in her life.

Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Driven Church, First Assembly of God in Pekin.  Pastor David Carrington will officiate.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin, and also from 9:45 to 10:15 a.m. Thursday at the church.  Burial will be in Spring Lake Cemetery in rural Manito.

Memorial contributions may be made on behalf of Joann's son, David Joel, to the Special Olympics of Illinois, 605 E. Willow St., Normal, Illinois.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com