Joan Jayne

On the morning of Sunday, November 5, 2023, Joan Jayne (JJ), aged 76, of Melbourne, Fl, gracefully transitioned to eternity, reuniting with her beloved husband, Larry, and cherished son, Larry Jr. in the embrace of Heaven.

Joan, born on November 18, 1946, in Ipswich, England, was one of eight siblings, the cherished daughter of Phillip and Betty Latham. After a joyous childhood and completing her education at Nacton Road Secondary Modern, Joan embarked on a professional journey that began with office work and was followed with a position at Churchman’s Cigar Factory in Ipswich.

Her narrative took an enchanting turn at a dance in the local Armed Services Club, where she encountered Larry Jayne, a young American Airman who would become the love of her life. Their meeting flourished into a lifelong partnership filled with love, friendship, and raising a family. Following their nuptials, Larry’s career led them to embark on a remarkable journey with the United States Air Force, crisscrossing the globe and immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.

Joan embraced motherhood early in her married life, seamlessly balancing parenting with part-time work as a waitress and bartender to help support her family. Over the years, she dedicated herself passionately to various volunteer roles, including school room mom, crisis phone volunteer, Camp Fire Girl leader and administrator, Family Services volunteer, hospital volunteer, and zoo volunteer. Later, when her children were grown, she transitioned seamlessly into a full-time career in finance and banking, endearingly acquiring the nickname “JJ”.

A fervent reader and puzzle enthusiast, Joan found solace in activities like Sudoku, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles. Her love of camping, particularly at Soldier Mountain Idaho, during her daughters’ youth, transitioned into a cherished retreat at the Faraway Inn at Cedar Key after relocating to Florida in the 90’s. The Faraway is where she enjoyed many Memorial Day celebration weekends with family and friends.

Unbelievable strength and independence are qualities that Joan possessed. She had a no nonsense attitude and also a heart of pure gold. She tried to help wherever and whoever she could. It was not uncommon for her to invite those who were away from their families to join the Jayne family dinner table. Many of those individuals became her extended family. Joan often purchased clothing and supplies for those in need at both holidays and in times of disaster. Through all the years, she touched so many lives, and was touched by those she helped.

Joan held a deep appreciation for this country and demonstrated unwavering support for veterans and their causes. She also advocated for the compassionate treatment of animals. She donated to local animal shelters, and over the years, adopted more than six dogs, giving them a home and the love they deserved.

Above all, Joan treasured her family. Daily conversations with her daughters and vacations spent together brought her immense joy. She built close relationships with not only her immediate and extended family, but with friends as well. Her beloved fur-baby, Tinkerbell, added a special warmth to her life.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Betty; Brothers, John and George; Sister, Cynthia; Husband, Larry, and son, Larry Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Kim Jayne Wire (Robert Wire) and Heather Jayne-VanSickle (Richard Miller); Granddaughter, Elizabeth Jayne Wire; Sisters, Kerry Goldstein, Gillian Latham, and Tricia Gilbert; Brother, David Latham, and cherished fur-baby, Tinkerbell.

A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Florida Memorial Gardens in Rockledge, FL, followed by a remembrance reception at Joan’s home from 3pm-6pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests considering donations to a local no-kill animal shelter such as the Brevard Humane Society, a veterans charity such as Disabled American Veterans, or K9’s for Warriors.