Joan Howard, 94, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 94 in Calhoun, Georgia. Born on December 12, 1930, in East Chicago, Indiana, Joan was the daughter of Samuel and Effie (Allen) Jorgensen.

Joan devoted much of her early life to raising her children, creating a warm and nurturing home for them. After the passing of her husband, Dale T Howard Sr., she transitioned into a dedicated career at United Samaritans Medical Center Hospital, where she worked for over 25 years at the switchboard, welcoming and admitting patients with utmost care and compassion. Her kindness, love, and dedication extended beyond her profession; she was a truly caring person who touched the lives of many.

Joan often reflected on the joy she found in spending time with her family on the farm, where cherished memories were created and shared. She had a passion for sewing and crochet, pursuits that brought her great satisfaction, and she took immense pride in teaching kids to swim, imparting valuable skills that would be cherished for a lifetime.

Joan is survived by her four children: Sam Micheal Howard (Debbie) of Tilton, IL; Dale T Howard Jr. "Doc" (Twyla) of Camargo, IL; Mark A Howard of Peru, IN; and Curtis L Howard (Elizabeth) of Sugar Valley, GA. She was a proud grandmother to fifteen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren, who all carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Nancy Bretz.

Joan is also lovingly remembered by those who have passed, including her son Patric K Howard, and sisters Bertella Dyer, Jane Bourne Price, and Sandra Araujo, as well as her late husband Dale T Howard Sr. Their memories remain a treasured part of her legacy.

Joan Howard will be deeply missed, but her spirit, kindness, and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's DeVerter Chapel 215 N. Division Street Cayuga, Indiana, 47928 on Saturday March 29, 2025, at 11:00 am. Est. Burial to follow at Hick's Cemetery Perrysville, Indiana. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Saturday, also on Friday March 28, 2025, from 5-7 pm Est. Please join Joan's family in sharing memories, pictures, and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com