The former Joanne Marie Williams was born on Nov. 1, 1935, in Green Bay, daughter of Anthony and Bernice (Lannoye) Williams. She entered the convent in 1954, professed her vows in 1957, and celebrated her Diamond Jubilee in 2015.
Sister Joanne received certification as a basic nursing assistant from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Green Bay. She served as a homemaker at St. Kilian, New Franken; St. Boniface, De Pere; Holy Trinity, Casco; and St. John the Baptist, Howard. She served in food service, general work and nursing assistant at the McCormick Home, Green Bay. She was food coordinator at the Chapel House of Prayer, Champion, and a cook at Holy Name Retreat House, Chambers Island. She also served in Community service at the Motherhouse and was a volunteer for outreach in the local area. Wherever she was she served with a smile and kindness.
“Cards, anyone?” Sister Joanne enjoyed playing games, especially Cribbage, Sheepshead and Zilch. She cherished the time she spent recreating with the Sisters and visiting with her family.
Survivors include the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross and Associates; a brother, Allen (Mary Jo) of Green Bay; a sister, Mary (Joseph) Boncher of Scottsdale, Ariz.; a sister-in-law, Dolly Williams of Green Bay; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Anthony and Bernice; a sister, Carole Lietzow; a brother, Glen; and a brother-in-law, Melvin Lietzow.
Visitation for Sister Joanne will take place at Holy Cross Church, 3009 Bay Settlement Road, on Friday, Jan. 3, from 9 am to 10:15 am. The Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am followed by burial in Holy Cross Cemetery.
The Sisters of St. Francis and the family of Sister Joanne wish to express their gratitude to the nursing staff at St. Francis Convent, McCormick Assisted Living and Moments Hospice of Green Bay for their loving care and support.