Obituary: JOAN MARIE BLACKWELL

JOAN MARIE BLACKWELL, age 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on October 28, 2023 after a valiant 5-1/2 year battle with pancreatic cancer.  “Joanie” is survived by her beloved husband of 41 years John “Jack”.  She was born in Cleveland Ohio on March 03, 1945, the oldest of three to the late Joseph and Faustina Brankatelli.  If asked, she would say that her greatest accomplishment was being mother to Frank (Cheryl), JoAnn Blackwell-Preston (Kamau) and Rocco (deceased).  She worked hard throughout her life, graduated from Kent State University Magna Cum Laude in 1995, and many people benefited from her knowledge and expertise in many areas throughout her career.  She was blessed with seven grandchildren: Amanda (David Simenc), Braden, Ashley, Dayne, Emily, Ava and Haylee.  When she wasn’t baking her famous zucchini bread or apple cake, she was canning fruits or crocheting blankets for everyone.  She took care to write personal cards and letters weekly to all those she loved and especially to her brother Ross Brankatelli (Chris) and her beloved sister Patty Brankatelli (Scott Grossnickle).  She loved her church, Our Lady of Guadalupe where she was a founding member for over 50 years, sang in the church choir, had a deep adoration toward the Blessed Mother Mary and prayed her rosary daily.  This deep spirituality and affection was felt by her large extended family and far too many friends to count, and all are welcome to call and pay their respects at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 W. AURORA RD. (OH RTE 82), SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 1, 2023 2:00P.M.-4:00P.M. and 6:00P.M.-9:00P.M. Funeral Thursday November 2, 2023 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 a.m. Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 9080 Shepard Rd. Macedonia, OH 44056. Interment All Saints Cemetery, 480 W. Highland Rd. Northfield, OH. 44067.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s name to Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish’s –  Ministry For Those in Need