Joanne R. Libby

February 9, 1948 – December 16, 2025

Joanne Rita (Laprise) Libby passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on December 16, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the beloved daughter of the late Henry Laprise and Bertha (Doirion) Laprise Burke. Born with a warm spirit and a heart devoted to caring for others, Joanne built a life filled with love, dedication, and unforgettable memories.

Joanne graduated from St. Ignatius High School, where the roots of her strong sense of community, loyalty, and service first took hold—values she carried with her throughout her life.

Joanne married her one and only love, Raymond Libby, with whom she shared 59 years of marriage. Their relationship was full of humor, mischief, and a bond uniquely their own. Whenever Raymond cracked a joke or stirred the pot, Joanne would give him that classic raised eyebrow and an exasperated, “Oh, Ray,” before slipping into French so only the two of them could be in on the moment. He loved joking with her about how he found her engagement ring in a Cracker Jack box.

Together, they raised three children: Lisa, Brian, and Tricia. As a devoted mother, Joanne poured her heart into her family while also pursuing her calling in nursing. During her long and dedicated career at Goodall Hospital, she was affectionately known as “Bubbles,” a nickname that reflected her upbeat energy. She worked tirelessly to become a licensed practical nurse, and her compassion and commitment left a lasting impact on countless lives.

To her ten grandchildren and her many great-grandchildren, Joanne was simply “Meme”—a title that brought her the greatest joy. Summers were spent by the pool, and her legendary “Camp Outs” created some of the most cherished family memories, especially the unforgettable pudding slide.

Joanne had a gift for hospitality. Her home was always filled with warmth, food, and the comforting smells drifting from both the oven and the stove. She cooked with bacon fat from her beloved “Fat Jar,” and she cherished her own favorite treats—Spanish peanuts, candy orange slices, and the cookie jar that lived permanently on the counter. And she had a spark to her, too. On Christmas, she was sometimes known to take a shot of tequila with her grandchildren, and in true Meme fashion, she once tucked turkey legs and ribs into her fanny pack—because you just never know when you might need one.

Collecting dolls was one of Joanne’s greatest passions. It brought her immense joy and allowed her to travel across many states to attend doll shows and conventions. Through these adventures, she made lifelong friends and found a community that shared her love for her cherished hobby. Her dedication to this passion led her to become the founder of the San-D-Over Dollars Doll Club, a legacy that reflects her leadership, creativity, and love for bringing people together.

Joanne was deeply involved in her community and proudly belonged to the Red Hat Society, the Daughters of Isabella, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and The Ladies Auxiliary, where she formed meaningful friendships and gave generously of her time and heart.

Joanne will be remembered for her kindness, humor, generosity, sass, and the unwavering love she poured into every part of her life. And now, she is reunited with her beloved Rufus, undoubtedly greeting him with the same warmth and affection she shared with everyone she loved.

Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.