JoAnn Samame's Obituary
JoAnn Samame was born on December 27th, 1934 in Marks Mississippi to Hazel and Galloway Self. She would tell you that she did not have the best of childhoods, though it shaped the amazing and loving woman that we all came to know. She was the oldest of 3 sisters to Judith and Candace Beck, later raising Candee alongside her own children, James and Patricia Foster, after her mother's passing.
JoAnn was defined by her love and loyalty to her family and friends. She was the rock that kept her people together. She was in equal parts the peacemaker and the instigator, but everyone knew that when she spoke, it came straight from her heart.
JoAnn was a senior administrative assistant for the majority of her career, but that is not what defined her as a person. Her ability to not give up on people and to try to support those that she cared about was endless. No matter where she was in her life, she never stopped thinking of those around her.
After meeting her love, Julio, in her 40s, they started a life together full of adventure, traveling, friendships, laughter, dancing, and many, many stories. They were the life of any party, and their joy would spread through any room big or small.
She truly loved her people and she would let you know in her own way. Whether it was a giant hug, a phone call to check in on you, a joke to make you smile or blush, some money so you could buy a college book, send you to camp, buy the perfect gift you didn't know you needed, life advice, or the honest truth, a moment from JoAnn Samame meant knowing the true meaning of love. She was not a perfect woman, but she was always cheering you on, whether you wanted her to or not. The world has lost a beautiful soul, but we will continue to keep her love alive through her memories, lessons, and laughter.
She is survived by her sister Judith Krebsbach. Children James and Patti Foster. Step children Terry Averyt, Debbie Catka. Grandchildren Kimberly Foster and Wren Averyt, many wonderful brothers-in-law, sons-in-law, nieces and cousins.
What’s your fondest memory of JoAnn?
What’s a lesson you learned from JoAnn?
Share a story where JoAnn's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with JoAnn you’ll never forget.
How did JoAnn make you smile?