JoAnn C French

Joey was born on February 1, 1938, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, the daughter of Joseph and Camille English. She graduated from Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart Academy and received her bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University. Her first teaching job out of college was in Shepherd, but she spent the rest of her teaching career in Cheboygan. She was a beloved kindergarten and elementary teacher for over 32 years, making an impact on countless children and families.

She married Gerald "Jake" Grisdale in 1960 in Mount Pleasant, and together they raised four boys. She later married Robert French in Cheboygan in 2010.

Her interests included watercolor painting, gardening and landscaping, as well as daily dips in her pool. Joey was dedicated to sending out birthday cards to relatives and many dear friends. She loved to travel and host parties, including her well-known Margaritaville get-togethers called "Under the Pines." It would be hard to find anyone as positive, encouraging, or classy.

JoAnn was extremely proud of her four sons and their families. She is survived by Michael (Sandra) Grisdale of Cheboygan; Mark (fiancée Cassandra) Grisdale of Fulshear, Texas; David (Valerie) Grisdale of Warrensburg, Missouri; and Andrew Grisdale of Cypress, Texas; along with 10 grandchildren—Bryan Grisdale, Matthew (Haley) Grisdale, Adam Grisdale, Lee (Melissa) Grisdale, Meredith (Blake) Kidd, Rhianna Grisdale, Roslyn (Randy) White, David Grisdale, Katherine Grisdale, and Charlotte Grisdale—and four great-grandchildren—Easton Grisdale, Olivia Grisdale, Luke Grisdale, and Margot Kidd (with another on the way!). She is also survived by her two sisters, Molly (Ken) Lixey of Swartz Creek and Camey (Tom) Carter of The Villages, Florida, along with several nieces and nephews. Also surviving are Robert's children, Lyn (Danny) Briel, Fred (Karen) French, Peg (Don) Cage, Susan French (and husband Thomas Norris), John (Barb) French, and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Conrad English, and her husbands.

Arrangements are being finalized.

Joey's final resting place will be at Calvary Cemetery in Mount Pleasant.

Memorial contributions can be made to CPR Parishes' Community Outreach Fund, P.O. Box 40, Cheboygan, MI 49721, and/or the Sacred Heart Academy Foundation, 316 E. Michigan Street, Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.