It’s hard to put into words what Mom meant to me. There was a comfort in knowing Mom was always there. No matter what was going on in life, I could pick up the phone and talk to her. I don’t think you fully realize how much that means until they’re gone.

Mom worked hard her entire life, and so much of what she did was for Barry and me. She worked at Dixie Cup for more than 40 years, helping provide for our family and making sure we had what we needed. I still remember her Christmas Club savings account. Looking back, I realize that without Mom putting that money away little by little throughout the year, we probably wouldn’t have had much of a Christmas. That was Mom, always thinking ahead and making sure her boys were taken care of.

And raising us probably wasn’t always easy. I was a pretty rambunctious boy, and I’m sure I was responsible for more than a few of those gray hairs! But through it all, Mom loved us and took care of us.

She was also a woman of strong faith. Some of my favorite memories are of her playing the piano and praising God. Her faith was a part of who she was and how she lived her life.

And Mom always looked nice. She loved to dress well and had a sense of style about her. No matter how hard she worked or how busy life was, she took pride in herself, her home, and her family.

Mom gave us so much through the years—her hard work, her faith, her strength, her love, and the comfort of simply knowing she was there. I’m grateful for everything she did for Barry and me and for the example she set for us.

I will miss talking to her. I will miss hearing her play the piano. I will miss knowing she was just a phone call away. And most of all, I will simply miss my mom.

Bryan

Joanne, my mother-in-law, was a good and Godly woman whose life was centered on faith and family. She raised two sons, and I will always be grateful for the love, faith, and values she instilled in her family. I see so much of that legacy in my husband, Bryan, and in the special love she shared with our son, Jacob, as his grandmother. Her faith was evident in the way she lived her life, and her influence will continue through the family she loved so dearly. I feel blessed to have called her my mother-in-law, and she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Mom,
As I reflect over the past few months and how I feel we became even closer, because of your illness, somethings just stand out; like how tenacious you were after suffering multiple strokes, how kind you were to the rehab staff, and the most important how strong your faith was… you talked about heaven being your final destination.
While your absence leaves a hole in our hearts, your legacy of love, strength, generosity, and compassion will continue to inspire us everyday, but your legacy of shopping may never be matched. I know that Dillards, TJ Maxx, and Kohls are in a state of mourning. Mom loved to shop, but she loved playing the piano at home and church.  Mom I can hear you from above saying son don’t be sad about my death, but rejoice in my birth. You were my biggest advocate and supported me in everything I did. I know that you will guide me from above as I continue to navigate life without you by my side. 
Your life was a blessing, and I’m so glad I was your son. I take comfort in knowing you’re watching over me, you’ll always be with me. I love you Mom

OBITUARY

Joanne Allen Staggs Petray

September 11, 1936 – August 11, 2026

Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home

Show your support

Send Flowers

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services

Committal

Past Services

Visitation

Funeral Service