JoAnn Graves was born Oct. 7, 1936, and passed away peacefully Nov. 25, 2023, knowing her loving family was by her side offering her love and comfort in her final days.
JoAnn was a lifelong resident of southern and central California, only briefly residing in Red Bank.
JoAnn was born and raised in South Pasadena, California, the oldest and last living of six children. She had a variety of careers, from the medical field to interior design. She continued working until she was 80 years old. She owned and operated a clothing boutique prior to retiring to Paso Robles, California. Once in Paso Robles, CA she continued part-time work in interior design as well as the beauty industry.
She had a larger-than-life personality and lit up every room with her storytelling skills. She was an amazing country cook, a self-proclaimed foodie, a sports enthusiast and a fan of rock ’n’ roll. It wasn’t uncommon to have lunch with her and start talking about what she was whipping up for dinner. She was a lover of high fashion and was known for her sense of style – flaming red hair, perfectly put-together outfits and never without lipstick.
Of all the careers she held, she would be the first to tell you mother was her favorite title as she loved and cared deeply for her family. She raised three children and stepped up and stepped in to help raise her twin grandsons and many of her beloved nieces and nephews.
She was a huge animal advocate and consistently donated to many different rescues throughout her life.
She was the backbone and light of her family. She will be deeply missed.
JoAnn is survived by her three children, Amber Graves-Welsh (Tommy), James Patrick “Bud” Graves (Sheri) and Janet Graves Sad (John); stepson Ted Shepard (Louise); grandchildren, Travis Sad, Cody Sad, Justin Graves, Victoria Houston, Amy Putman, Michael Shepard, Traci Siriprathane, Crystal Gallo and Jack Welsh, along with their families, consisting of 14 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; as well as her cherished nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her infant son, Joseph Michael; her first husband, Ted Graves; her brothers, James, William and Robert Ehrlich; sisters, Judith Ann Wharton and Virginia Grant; and stepson David Shepard.
Memorial visitation with a service was held Jan. 13 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A private interment will take place this summer in South Pasadena, California.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite animal rescue in JoAnn’s name.
This article originally appeared in the January 18 – 24, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
