Dr. Josephine Ann Adelsperger

JoAnn Adelsperger, age 82, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026.

Born on March 25, 1943, in Newport, Rhode Island, JoAnn lived a life defined by service, education, independence, and devotion to family. She was a proud Navy veteran, a dedicated Registered Nurse, a Healthcare Executive, and later an Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati School of Nursing. A lifelong learner, she earned both her Master’s degree and Ed.D. embodying her deep belief in the transformative power of knowledge.

JoAnn was a strong and independent woman who cared deeply about the health and well-being of others. Beyond her service as a Vietnam era Navy Nurse and her professional accomplishments, she was passionate about advancing women’s education and equality, encouraging young women to pursue independence and success on their own terms. Her intelligence, resilience, and determination left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She loved her family profoundly, especially her grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy. JoAnn cherished time with friends, was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling when she was able, and was known for her laughter, sociability, and ability to embrace life fully whenever her health allowed. The phrase that best captures her spirit is one she lived by: “Live well, laugh much, love often.”

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Adelsperger; father, George Knight; mother, Josephine DeRosier Knight; and brother, Paul Knight.

She is survived by her sister, Linda Knight; sister-in-law, Barbara Knight; brother, Peter Knight (Petra); brother, George Knight (Brenda); son, Neil Bryson (Melissa); and cherished grandchildren, Nicholas Bryson and Anna Bryson.

A celebration of life will be held this summer in Cincinnati, Ohio, and will be open to all who loved her. Details regarding date and location will be shared in the coming months. JoAnn will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Rhode Island Veterans National Cemetery at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in her name to the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing (https://giveto.uc.edu/nursing/give) JoAnn’s life was one of service, strength, and unwavering commitment to education and family. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched as a veteran, nurse, executive, educator, friend, colleague, mother, and grandmother.

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