JoAnn H. Conklin

Our beautiful Mom, Joann Conklin, born Joann Hudson on the Island of Chincoteague, in the Commonwealth of Virginia on July 7, 1939, went to be with her Lord on February 22, 2022, surrounded by her family and her precious caretaker Miss Kathy. She was blessed with a beautiful childhood growing up on the “Island,” having many friends, an abundance of family, and her beloved brother Bill who watched out for her and remained a best friend to the end.

Marrying her teenage boyfriend Harry in 1955, she accompanied him with their growing family to the many US Coast Guard ports of call for the next 23 years, with their last tour of duty, once again, in Honolulu, Hawaii. The family agrees that Hawaii was her favorite place to live as it was always warm and sunny - which quite naturally agreed with and perfectly reflected her personality. She enjoyed watching her kids grow, play sports, make friends; and becoming the neighborhood mom to all. Mom often had cakes and cookies always available to visiting friends, especially as after-hour snacks for curfew offending teens.

She was beautiful inside and out and had infinite hugs and kisses for everyone. She never met a stranger and would give the shirt off her back for someone in need. Regardless of hardships in her life, she figured out a way to move forward with a “smile on her face and a song in her heart.” Everyone who knew her felt blessed to know her.

She cherished her family and made everyone feel special; there was no judgment, only unconditional love. Her heart was as big as her smile, and we will miss it forever. “We love you a bushel and a peck.”

In her later years, she fell ill and finally succumbed to health issues. Her faith in Christ remained her stronghold through her final days. She is preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Frieda Hudson. She is survived by her brother Bill Hudson, her sons Greg and Phil Conklin, daughter Dana Griffin, son-in-law Donny, and a parade of much-loved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many friends.

The family wants to thank Mom’s wonderful caretakers Kathy, April, Sally, and Elena, for all of the love and beautiful care. You are part of our family forever. A celebration of life will be held at Chapelwood Methodist Church on May 7, 2022, at 11:00 am.