Joann Marie Leslie

Joann Marie Leslie, 90, of Gresham, Oregon, passed away on July 28, 2026. Born on May 5, 1936, in Reardon, Washington, Joann was the daughter of Anna and Harold Tierney. From her earliest years, she carried herself with a steady thoughtfulness and a warm, generous spirit that would remain a hallmark of her life.

Joann graduated from high school and continued on to college, where she earned her degree as a dietitian. It was there that she met the man who would become her husband, and the two were married in 1958 in Spokane, Washington. In 1969, Joann experienced the loss of her brother, a sorrow she carried with quiet strength and enduring faith.

Joann served others through her work, first as a dietitian at Good Samaritan Hospital. She later worked at Mt. Hood Community College as a lunch lady, where she also did demonstrations, bringing care and attentiveness to everyday moments. After years of dedicated service, she retired, leaving behind a legacy of kindness expressed through simple, faithful consistency.

Above all, Joann was devoted to her family. She is survived by her three sons: Steven R Leslie (Pam), Johnny H Leslie, and William C Leslie. She is also survived by four grandchildren: Steven J Leslie (Kari), Nicole M Mendez (Elias), Korin, and Hal; and three great-grandchildren: Conner, Kinley, and Carmen. To those who knew her best, she was deeply beloved—steadfast in love, attentive in presence, and generous in the ways that mattered most.

Joann found joy and companionship in her interests and activities. She participated in Red Hat’s and water aerobics, also in TOPS (Weight Watchers' group). She enjoyed knitting, crafting, cooking, and reading. She also loved plays and movies, and she carried a gentle delight for life’s everyday pleasures—often accompanied by a ready laugh that made others feel at ease. Watching sports with her family was a cherished time for her.

Her faith guided her, not only in belief but in action. Joann supported donations and charities and served through her church, including helping as a minister to those who were unable to attend services in person. In these quiet acts of care, her kind-hearted nature—thoughtful, giving, and deeply respectful of the dignity of others.

A graveside service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 400 SW Walters Road, Gresham, Oregon. Joann will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Gresham.

Joann Marie Leslie will be remembered for a life shaped by devotion, generosity, and a steady, loving presence—one that will continue to be felt in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.