Joanne Sanders Stever

Joanne Stever, age 73, passed away peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, in Falls Church, Virginia, with her loving husband of more than 50 years, Edward Stever, by her side. She is survived by her devoted husband, Edward “Ted” Stever; her brothers, Bill Sanders and David Sanders (Linda); her son, Shaun Stever (Christina); and grandson, Landon Stever.

Born on August 22, 1952, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Joanne later moved with her family to Springfield, Virginia, in the 1950s. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Sanders and Carolyn Sanders.

Joanne was a proud graduate of James Madison University, formerly known as Madison College, where she met the love of her life, Ted. The two were married on June 7, 1975, and together built a life centered on love, family, dedication, and lifelong friendships.

Joanne had an extraordinary 28-year career with the United States’ Department of the Army as an HR Specialist, where she became widely respected as a trusted expert in Federal Human Resources. Known as a go-to resource in her field, she played a significant role in the development of a Federal Talent Management System designed to help streamline the federal hiring process. Her work took her across the world, including assignments and travel to Alaska, Germany, and Korea, among many other locations. Joanne retired in 2004 following a distinguished career of public service.

Outside of her career, Joanne treasured time with family and loved ones. She especially loved spending time at the beach, creating cherished memories in Ocean City, Maryland, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she and Ted purchased a retirement home. She found joy in life’s simple moments — swim classes, neighborhood game nights, and her numerous beloved cats over the years. She was a devoted supporter at her son’s little league baseball and high school football games, proudly cheering him on through the years. Most of all, she adored being Landon’s grandmother, and her happiest moments were those spent making memories with him.

Like her father before her, Joanne was a devoted baseball fan and a loyal supporter of the Washington Nationals. As a season ticket holder for more than 20 years, she rarely missed a home game and found great joy cheering on her team alongside family and friends.

Most importantly, Joanne was a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend whose kindness, warmth, and unwavering support touched the lives of so many. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 28th at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA 2215. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m., followed by a ceremony at 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association:

Alzheimer's Association Donation Page