JoAnn Harrington, 86, of Mesa AZ passed away in her sleep on April 6th 2024 after a recent stay in the hospital.
JoAnn was born on March 12th, 1938 in Cedar Rapids IA, daughter of Joseph and Sarah Duffie. After graduating JoAnn worked at the Linn County Court House before joining Family Service Agency where she would retire. JoAnn was nominated for Cedar Rapids woman of the year in the 1990’s for her work at Family Service Agency. JoAnn volunteered at St Luke’s hospital in Cedar Rapids for many years. After retirement and moving to Mesa, she volunteered at the Banner Gateway Medical Center hospital for over 10 years. She was also an avid bowler and won the 1973 Cedar Rapids city championship in both singles and doubles along with many team titles over the years.
JoAnn is predeceased by her parents Joseph and Sarah, former husband William (Bill) Harrington, sister Betty Kacena and daughter Debi (Carlos) Valenzuela. She is survived by her sons Mark Harrington and Jim (Catherine) Harrington. As well as grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and friends.
Our mom was kind and enjoyed spending time making diamond art the past few years, a hobby she was introduced to by her late daughter. She also enjoyed a good piece of fudge, listening to Frank Sinatra, her family and a simple drive around town with a coffee in hand. She enjoyed people and enjoyed listening to conversations.
She will be deeply missed, but is now at peace with God and her family and friends that have passed before her. May she enjoy eternal life in heaven until we see her again.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date to be determined.
My dear Grandma Joey, you always seemed like such a celebrity to me. I remember when I was little and you’d visit, you’d lay out in your bikini and soak up the sun. You’d have on your sunglasses and pink lipstick, just perfect. Later I still remember going to lunch with you and my mom and after you’d break out your mirror and reapply your lipstick. I just always thought how classy that was. You’ve always been wonderful to me and my little family. Your great grandkids adored you and always asked about Grandma Joey. We miss you!!! Love and hugs until we meet again.
Mark, we are so sorry for the loss of your beautiful mama, may she rest in peace and may she watch over you and everyone that she loved!!! if you ever need anything, a hug, or just to talk, we are here for you! We love you!!!God bless you and your family..
Love,
Carl, Kim
Timothy & James
and family
I have such fond memories growing up of the Harrington’s living across the street. Those memories will always remain close to my heart. Social media reunited us after years of living in different states. Finally in 2017, a trip to AZ to reunite with JoAnn, Debi and Mark. It was wonderful and I’m so thankful that my sister’s and I were able to see them❤️ Go be with your daughter, JoAnn, I’m sure she greeted you with a lot of tears and open arms. Love you all❤️
Mark and Jim and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Joanne was a wonderful neighbor to us. She was such a kind and thoughtful person and always so positive. We will miss her very much.