Joanna Azarelo

Joanna attended nursing school while caring for and supporting her three sons as a single mother. In 1975 she graduated from Caledonian School of Practical Nursing in Brooklyn. Joanna worked as a nurse and healthcare administrator until she relocated to Morrisville, North Carolina in 2001.

Joanna had a love for the arts and would often dabble in water colors focusing on many landscape works, usually including a beautiful sunset. After she retired from nursing, Joanna stayed close to her passions by working part time for the Town of Cary at The Cary Arts Center, Page Walker Arts and History Center, and Jordan Hall.

Throughout her life, Joanna faced many challenges and hardships which she always overcame due to her unwavering faith in God, compassion and ability to forgive others. Her love and support for her sons and grandchildren played a huge part in their success and happiness. She had the biggest heart and wildest sense of humor. Her presence lit up every room she entered.

She was truly loved and admired by all who knew her and her passing will be deeply felt by her family and friends. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Theresa and great granddaughter, Isabella. She is lovingly remembered by her sons: James Azarelo and his wife Deborah, Lawrence Azarelo and his wife Theresia; her grandchildren: James Azarelo Jr., Frank Azarelo iii, Lawrence Azarelo, Jessica Azarelo, Laura Clark and Kristen McGuire and great grandchildren: Salvatore Azarelo, Callan Clark, and Donavon Azarelo.

Joanna loved dogs as well as all of those who cannot speak for themselves. Therefore in lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be donated to the Wake County SPCA in the name of her best and most loyal friend Molly.

Fond memories and expressions of condolences can be shared online at apexfuneral.net for the Azarelo Family.