Joann Lea Watts Sciarabba

Affectionately known as “Josie,” Joann was born on December 24, 1940, in Pascagoula, MS, to Iddo and Maxine Watts. She was the oldest of two children, spending her childhood in Poplarville. Joann was a devout follower of Jesus Christ, humbly devoting her life to Him at a young age. A true farm girl, she enjoyed participating in 4-H projects. Poised and elegant, she excelled in pageants obtaining titles such as Miss Hospitality and first runner-up for Miss Mississippi.

She earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in Home Economics and later a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Mississippi. On May 25, 1963, Joann married the love of her life, Peter Joseph Sciarabba, Sr. They were married for 62 years and together raised 4 children. After residing in New Jersey for twenty plus years building their family, Joann and Peter returned home to Mississippi where they remained. Though she spent many years homemaking and teaching, she later became a dedicated nurse, compassionately caring for those who could not do for themselves.

Nature being her favorite place to be, she had a calm, gentle spirit that thrived in the simple things outdoors. She had a green thumb and was an unmatched seamstress, even sewing both of her daughters’ wedding dresses. She was a gifted singer and pianist, passing a passion for music down multiple generations. Lay’s potato chips, Chips Ahoy cookies, and milk could always be found in her kitchen. A pillar of strength and wisdom to all who knew her, Joann was a steadfast wife, mother, grandmother “Ging-Ging,” and great grandmother. She ensured love, stability, magic, and most importantly, a distinguished sense of humor among each generation of her offspring. She touched countless lives with her kindness, humility, and compassion. Her life resounded resilience from beginning to end.

Joann is preceded in death by both of her parents, Iddo and Maxine Watts; her oldest son John Robert Sciarabba; her sister Sandra Breit; and two nephews, Conrad and Hjalmar Breit. She is survived by her loving husband, Peter J. Sciarabba, Sr.; children, Mary Jo Perry (Derek), Amy S. Martin (Drew), Peter J. Sciarabba, Jr.(Rebecca); grandchildren, Chad Perry (Brittney), John Perry, Jacob Perry, Emma Grace Burnham (Collin), Sam Martin, Sara Beth Martin, David Martin, John Sciarabba (Samantha), William Evans, Cameron Smith (Savanna); several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Her legacy will live on through the love she gave and memories shared.

Arrangements will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at White Funeral Home in Poplarville, MS. Visitation will be from 9:00 am - 11:00 am with Memorial Service to follow at 11:00 am. Family will hold a private burial.

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things,but you surpass them all.’ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” Proverbs 31:28 - 31