Joan S. Pazera

PAZERA Joan Stevens, of Williamsburg, Va., died on September 6, 2017. Joni’s friendship with Bill W. and his program of support gave her incredible energy and the ability to work, play and enjoy friends and family. In 1978, Joni graduated from VCU with a general studies degree. For 32 years, she worked in the substance abuse field, both in counseling and program development. In the mid-1980s, Joni was instrumental in the development of the Virginia Impaired Professionals Program which grew into the Farley Center Program at Williamsburg Place. Joni’s spare time was consumed by family, friends, reading, cooking and bridge- to name a few. Most of all, she enjoyed interacting with people. Joni was born on April 1, 1929, to Leigh and Isabelle Stevens in Roanoke, Va. She married Joseph Edward Pazera in 1951 and was preceded in death by him in 1993. Joni is survived by son, Steve Pazera and his wife, Lisa; daughter, Kathy Pazera; and grandson, Forrest. There will be a Celebration of Life service on Thursday, October 26, 2017, at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Williamsburg, Va., beginning at 3:30 p.m. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Faith in Action, 354 McLaws Circle, Ste. 2, Williamsburg, Va. 23185, Sentara Hospice, 200 Enterprise Dr., Newport News, Va. 23605 or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered at woodyfuneralhomeparham.com.