When I think of Joanne the word 'grace' always comes to my mind. She always had this sense of calm, I never heard her raise her voice, she was never judgemental of anyone and you could always talk to her about anything. She was witty and always laughed easily. Whenever I would visit her in Sarasota, immediately upon walking into the house, I would feel a sense of calm. Always knowing my visit would be amazing with many laughs, great restaurants and plenty of chats in the family room. She truly loved everyone and had such a huge compassion for animals. I remember our trip to Carmel and how she let the ducks from the grounds waddle into her room - loving every minute of it. Even though she was such a petite woman with a gentle soul, she truly was a woman of immense strength. She battled her cancer for so many years and never shared the extent of her pain or suffering. I always thought her fight was miraculous. Her voice, her knitted sweater for my boys, her class and her friendship will all be very much missed. Spending my week alone with her in April has by far been one of the best decisions I've made in a long time and those memories, chats and final moments of getting to know each other just a little bit more will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Joey. I love you. Julie