JoAnn Lois Lawrence

JoAnn Lois Lawrence

Born: December 8, 1932, Rhinelander, Wisconsin Died: February 14, 2025, Scottsdale, Arizona

JoAnn Lois Lawrence, a loving mother, grandmother, and a woman of unwavering spirit, passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 92. She was born in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, to Estella and Andrew Mraz, and was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Lawrence (Larry) and Richard (Dick) Mraz.

JoAnn’s life was defined by her strength, independence, and an unyielding love for her family. She was the proud mother of five children. Tom (Jean Halsey), Bob (Cheri), Mary (Dr. Andrew Shetter), Scott (Carolyn Foltz), and Jon Paul (Brandi), and a devoted grandmother to nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Her family always knew her as a loving and determined matriarch, who raised her children on her own, often working multiple jobs to ensure they had what they needed.

JoAnn frequently remarked that if she had only had daughters, she would have named them all Mary. She also humorously claimed that she was "holy" because she was born on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Deeply devoted to our Blessed Mother, JoAnn's sense of humor and warmth made a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

JoAnn spent the majority of her life in Nampa, Idaho, where she made countless lifelong friendships. Known for her thoughtful nature, she always remembered a birthday or special occasion, making sure everyone around her felt important and loved. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, as she had a unique way of brightening every room she entered. Never one to stay by the sidelines or rest, JoAnn was always on the move. Whether it was organizing events, reaching out to friends, or simply enjoying a walk through town, she embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. Her tireless spirit and vibrant personality ensured that she remained a central part of her community, constantly creating connections and memories that will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.

JoAnn’s unwavering dedication to her faith was evident in her daily routine, as she walked to Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church every morning, rain or shine. This commitment to attending daily Mass was a cornerstone of her life, and she carried it out with the same devotion that guided her other daily activities. She made daily trips to the thrift store (a frugal shopper and a collector of many things!) and the grocery store, often with her children trailing behind, asking her to slow down as we tried to keep pace, all while she kept a vigilant eye on each of us. Her love for walking not only kept her active, but also allowed her to remain deeply connected to her community, while embodying the devotion that guided her faith and her family life. JoAnn didn’t learn to drive until later in life, but her daily walks were a testament to her determination and her deep sense of purpose.

A passionate sports fan, JoAnn's heart belonged to the Green Bay Packers, but after moving to Arizona, she also became a die-hard fan of the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Her love for sports was matched only by her enthusiasm for gambling, especially when it came to anything competitive. Whether it was placing a bet or challenging someone to a friendly card game, JoAnn was always ready for a little wager.

JoAnn's love for games extended to the card table, where she was renowned for her skill in cribbage. A world-class player, she enjoyed playing until six months prior to her passing, always ready for the next round. She also had a knack for finding treasures at yard sales and relished watching birds in her Arizona backyard. Her competitive nature never wavered, and she would always find ways to make sure everyone was having fun, whether at home, at a game, or while caring for Mary and Andy’s dog Bentley who she lovingly tended during her many visits to Arizona.

JoAnn was affectionately known as “Swing Shift Maisie” during her younger years, and she never lost the vibrant energy that defined her. She was always the hostess, always thinking of others, and making sure they felt welcome and valued. Right to the end, her concern for others was her guiding light, always making sure everyone around her was happy and well taken care of.

In lieu of flowers or donations, JoAnn's family kindly requests that you take a moment to spend quality time with your loved ones or enjoy an outing together, just as JoAnn would have wanted.

She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her love, her competitive spirit, and her ability to make everyone feel at home.

Survived by: Her five children: Tom Lawrence (Jean Halsey), Bob Lawrence (Cheri), Mary Shetter (Dr. Andrew Shetter), Scott Lawrence (Carolyn Foltz) and Jon Paul Lawrence (Brandi). Nine grandchildren: Brianna Lawrence (Ryan Sullivan), Dr. Brady Lawrence (Dr. Veronica Lawrence), Ann Shively (Trevor), Andrew Shaffer, Hunter Herr (Ryan), Kyle Lawrence, Haiden Lawrence, Sofia Lawrence, and Madeline Lawrence. Four great-grandchildren: Eloise Lawrence, Duke Lawrence, Scout Sullivan and Samuel Herr.

Preceded in death by: Her parents, Estella and Andrew Mraz, and two brothers, Lawrence (Larry) and Richard (Dick) Mraz.

Rest in peace, JoAnn. You were loved beyond measure and will remain in our hearts forever.

Services will take place at Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church in Carefree, Arizona, on March 21st at 10 a.m., with the viewing preceding at 9:15 followed by the Rosary at 9:30. The service will be live streamed and available for future viewing. The church is located at 36811 North Pima Road.

A gathering will follow the service at the Shetter residence located at 10067 East Golf Trail in Scottsdale.