Joanne Eleanore Sperry, 90, of Traverse City, passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the French Manor with her loving family by her side.

Joanne was born on July 13, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Bayard and Eleanor (Meres) Clark. After graduating from high school, she earned her master's degree in teaching and education from Eastern Michigan University.

In 1958, Joanne married John J. Meyers in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and together for several years they lovingly raised three children; Grace, Jay and Paul. In 1973, the family moved to Traverse City. Shortly before moving to Traverse City, Grace was diagnosed with cancer. She went into remission and ending up passing in January 1982. Following her daughter's passing, Joanne was heartbroken and prayed for her every day. Joanne and John would eventually part ways but still remained friends.

Joanne was a dedicated teacher of upper elementary students in Ann Arbor Public Schools, St. Mary's of Hannah and Immaculate Conception Schools. She had a passion for music and theater. She enjoyed playing the piano and directing school plays. A very devoted Catholic, she loved studying the lives of the saints and deepening her understanding of faith and time with her beloved Carmalite sisters. Joanne was an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Parish and the Carmelite Secular Order. She even earned the OCDS honor. i

In 1982, Joanne found love again and married James L. Sperry on December 27, 1982 in Traverse City. They shared many happy years together before James preceded her in death in 2006. Joanne and Jim enjoyed travel, time with family, playing music and were very active in Church. They enjoyed their homes on the Old Mission Peninsula, Dell Road in Kingsley and the final home at Creekside Condominium Association.

Joanne will be remembered for her incredible faith, kindness, generosity and love for her family.

She is survived by her sons Jay (Nanette) Meyers, Paul (Jody) Meyers ; grandchildren, Michael Meyers, Christopher Meyers, Brian Meyers, Paul "Cal" (Katlyn) Meyers, Jay (Kali) Meyers, and Halle (Caleb) Funk, ; great-grandchildren Ryker, Alana, Leo, Aspen, James, and one great-grandchild on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James, and her beloved daughter Grace.

A Mass of Catholic Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Traverse City, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. Burial will take place at Oakwood Catholic Cemetery at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Carmelite Order or to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The family wishes to thank Hospice of Michigan and French Manor for taking wonderful care of Joanne. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .