Joanne G. Metz

Joanne Gus Metz, 51, of Alfred, died on Thursday night in the loving company of her family after a brave fight with cancer. Joanne lived her life courageously, caring for others and supporting our most unfortunate populations. She was a strong advocate for prisoners, the homeless, the elderly and troubled teens. She was born in Sanford on March 4, 1958, a daughter of John M. and Katherine (Pappamihiel) Caramihalis, Sr.She graduated from Sanford High School in 1976 and went on to get her bachelors degree from Springfield College. She was one course away from getting her masters degree in social work. She believed in education and social justice and spent her final years working at York County Shelters as an intake counselor. She was an important part of the community of the York County Shelters and she will be deeply missed by both the staff and residents there.Joanne had a wonderful personality full of enthusiasm and humor that, along with a keen sense of compassion, made her a pleasure to be with. Joanne's candid honesty and colorful language made her particularly attractive to everyone in her presence.She was predeceased by her husband, T. J. Metz in 2008.Survivors include a son, Thomas D. Metz of Portland, a daughter, Jessica J. Metz of Hawaii, her mother, Kay Caramihalis of Alfred, a brother, John M. Caramihalis and his wife Tami of Alfred, a sister Ann Cutten and her husband Gordon of Shapleigh, a sister, Jae Simonds of Springvale, a sister, Marcia Pitcher and her husband John of W. Newfield and several nieces and nephews.Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday from 5-8 PM at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. A memorial reception and celebration of Joanne's life will be held on Tuesday from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Little Theater of the Nasson Community Center in Springvale.Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider York County Shelters, Inc., P. O. Box 820, Alfred, ME 04002. Condolences may be expressed at the Condolences tab at left.Arrangements are under the direction of the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale.