She was born on August 9, 1935 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania to Margaret Harris McCall and Bernard McCall. In 1954, she met Paul Anderson, affectionately known as “Andy”, and they were married on December 21st of that same year.
Together, Joan and Paul raised two daughters. Joan worked for over twenty years as a substitute teacher and school secretary in the Hamilton County School System. Her passion for teaching went beyond the classrooms. She touched many lives with her wisdom, patience, and kindness.
Joan was also known for her deep love of cooking and baking, which she used to show her love to others. Whether it was preparing a favorite meal or trying a new recipe, she found joy in sharing food with family and friends.
In retirement, Joan enjoyed traveling and exploring new places. Some of her favorite trips included Nova Scotia, Italy, and Alaska. She was a natural storyteller and always had a memory or adventure to share.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Anderson and her grandson-in-law, Russel Harper.
Joan is survived by her two daughters, Judith Ann (William “Kirt”) Graham and Deborah Lynn Anderson; her two granddaughters, Margaret Graham Harper and Rebecca (Preston) Gill; and four great-grandchildren, Colin Gill, Mason Gill, Presley Gill, and Kinsley Gill.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090-6011 or https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate
A graveside service for Joan will be held Monday, April 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153 Hixson, TN 37343. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com
