Joanna Spurgeon, 97, Columbia City, passed away at 12:35 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at Parkview Whitley Hospital in Columbia City. She was born in Swayzee, Indiana, on Sunday, November 16, 1924, to the late Oscar and Minnie (Clannin) Gentis. She was married to Richard J. Spurgeon, who preceded her in death on June 23, 1997.
Joanna graduated from Swayzee High School’s Class of 1943 and attended cosmetology college to become a beautician. She was a member of Churubusco United Methodist Church and Eastern Star. She worked at General Electric for over 25 years and retired early. This allowed her to take care of her husband and to go on many camping excursions as they belonged to many camping clubs.
Survivors include her daughter, Angelia Chaffin of Huntington; son, Danny (Corliss) Spurgeon of Columbia City; grandsons, Justin Spurgeon, and Brian Chaffin; granddaughters, Jennifer Robinson, Jessica Sauers, Jodie Baker, Julie Spurgeon, Jamie Spurgeon, Lina Spurgeon, and Ellisha Chaffin; and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard J. Spurgeon; grandson, Jason Spurgeon; brothers, Donald Gentis, Von Gentis, and Walter Gentis; and sisters, Mabel Atkins and Esther Shelly.
The family will receive visitors from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Rybolt Chapel, 314 N. Washington St., Swayzee, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Joanna’s life will begin at 11:00 am with Pastor Mick Simpkins officiating. Burial will take place at Thrailkill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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