Joan M. Shirley, 77, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at the Elkhart home of her daughter on Sunday, September 24, 2023 following an extended illness.

She was born in Elkhart on November 8, 1945 to the late John Hann and Doloris (Sapen) Tyson. They precede her in death, along with Joan's son Jimmy Shirley who passed in 2018 and her sister Judy Hann who passed 1977.

Surviving Joan are her daughters Tammy (Lee) Rasavong of Goshen and Ruthie VanVorst and Tonya (Pete) Wilson, both of Elkhart; grandchildren Amber, Jonathan, Derek, Brett, Trisha, Christopher and Dalton; 16 great grandchildren, and a loving host of extended family, friends and former co-workers.

In accordance with her wishes, Joan is to be cremated and a private burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery at a later date. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services have been assisting Joan's daughters with the arrangements.

Joan was a production worker at San-Tress Draperies for many years but considered herself more of a professional grandma and great grandma than anything else. She received her professional degree at the University of Hard Knocks and had a major in "grandma hugs" I and II and was well versed in the art of loving on all of her grands whenever she could.

Joan went out of her way to be loving and kind, but it really kind of just came naturally so it was easy for her to make friends. She would always find a compliment to say to nearly everyone, and it pleased her whenever she could be cordial. True to her warm and loving nature, Joan's favorite season was the Holidays, so it was only fitting that she took her leave now so she could begin her decorating of Heaven.

Joan was an ardent lover of life and enjoyed simple things like car rides and country music (Loretta Lynn was her favorite). She also loved to do embroidery work and visit Starbuck's whenever she could and get herself a Frappuccino. (Vente, please!) All in all, Joan was sweet, loving soul who relished the relationships she made in life. Her loving, indominable spirit will be forever missed. Until we meet again, Joan…….. "You ARE beautiful!"

For those that wish to leave a condolence or share a memory may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.