JoAnne Cipriani

JoAnne (Walker) Cipriani was a devoted mother and wife who brought love, care, and a full belly to anyone who entered her home. She approached each moment of her life with honesty, and each person in her life with generosity and compassion. She came into our lives from an ocean of love, a wave that first crested on her childhood beaches of Anna Maria Island, where she watched the sunset play across the living ocean, a lifelong rhythm that will remain in the hearts of her family.

Born in Chicago, Illinois on Wednesday August 21, 1940, JoAnne then spent her childhood on Anna Maria Island with her mother—Ruby—a place that shaped her gentle and grounded spirit. In her youth, she practiced piano at her local church and spent long summers by the water. She later met her husband—Frank—and they were married at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach by Father Welsmiller in 1958, beginning a lifelong partnership built on resilience, care, and shared devotion to family.

Together, JoAnne and Frank owned CnC Marine in Cortez, Florida for many years, building not only a business, but a life deeply rooted in their community.

They raised four children—Susan, Paul, Mike, and Deanna—and created a home that extended far beyond its walls. Living alongside Frank’s brother and parents, their family life was dynamic and at times challenging, but always remained connected, supportive, and enduring. JoAnne is preceded in death by her mother, brother, Frank’s parents and siblings, and her sons—Paul and Mike.

JoAnne expressed her care through what she created. She was known for her incredible skill in painting and clothing her hand-made dolls, each one crafted with attention and patience. Any plant placed in her care seemed to thrive, growing vibrant and full in her garden. And for anyone who visited her home, one thing was certain: if you left hungry, it was your own fault.

She will also be remembered for her love of shells and taking gorgeous photos of sunsets over the Gulf.

JoAnne and Frank created a home filled with warmth and joy for their grandchildren—David, Adam, Kristi, and Kaitie. That same love naturally extended to their great-grandchildren—Trent, Xoa, Eli, Leo, Ivy, Gavin, and Maddox. But her care was never limited to titles or definitions. Over the years, many found themselves welcomed as unofficial children and grandchildren, drawn in by her open door and steady presence, she touched many many people.

On Sunday, March 29, 2026, JoAnne passed peacefully at home, with her husband Frank by her side.

Her life leaves behind a simple and lasting imprint: a home that welcomed and a way of caring that continues through everyone she touched. The ocean she loved feels almost large enough to hold both our grief in losing her and our gratitude for having known her.

A service in honor and memory of JoAnne will be held at Groover Funeral Home in Ellenton, Florida on Friday, April 3, 2026. Visitation will begin at 1 pm. Her funeral service will begin at 2 pm. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend.