JoAnne Alexia Horrell

JoAnne Alexia Horrell, passed away on October 16th, 2023 at the age of 83. A native of Sacramento, JoAnne was born on November 6, 1939. She graduated from Sacramento High School, attended Sacramento City College and American River College.

JoAnne was passionate, determined, dedicated and loving soul. She was a great patron of the arts. As a young girl, she studied opera with Julia Munroe and took ballet lessons from Barbara Crockett. She even sang in a band to pay for her singing lessons. She was a member of the Sacramento Saturday Club and served 2 terms as President of the Patrons Club at American River College.

When her son, Michael, died in a tragic accident, she turned her pain to purpose by becoming a member of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and by participating on the Victim’s Impact Panel for Sacramento County under Judge Gunther.

JoAnne wore many hats. She was a small business owner, a mom, a sister and a Yiayia. Among her myriad of interests and activities included singing in the church choir, going to the Music Theater, attending tennis matches, cooking and traveling. She especially enjoyed having her grandchildren over for Sunday dinners. JoAnne is also lovingly remembered by family and friends as having an absolute passion and love for dogs. She is preceded in death by her parents, Toula and Gus Demas, her brother, Harry Demas and her son, Michael Horrell.

She is survived by her three children, Chris, Alyssa, and John, her stepson Rich, her 5 grandchildren Daniel, Emily, Matthew, Lucca and Celeste, as well as, her daughter-in-law Pia and son-in-law Kiet.

Visitation/Viewing will be on Thursday, October 26th, from 4 to 8 pm with the Trisagion at 7 pm. Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home at 5401 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819. Memorial Services will be held on Friday, October 27th at 10 am at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 600 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95816.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.nicoletticuljisherbergerfunerals.com for the Horrell family.