Graham Funeral Home

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Jo-Anne Teel Jo-Anne Teel Jo-Anne Teel Jo-Anne Teel
In Memory of
Jo-Anne Williams
Teel
1953 - 2017
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The lighting of a Memorial Candle not only provides a gesture of sympathy and support to the immediate family during their time of need but also provides the gift of extending the Book of Memories for future generations.

JoAnne Makes a Life Changing Decision

     I remember when I took JoAnne to the Navy recruiter in Batavia right before I headed off to boot camp myself.  When I arrived in Warsaw for a visit in the summer of 1972, JoAnne was looking for a change in her life.  I had been through the recruiting process months before and Jo asked many questions about joining the Navy.  One day she decided she wanted to join the Navy and begin a new life.  Ultimately, I agreed to provide the moral support and go with her to see the recruiter.

 

     She was very pleased with her decision and glad that I was going with her.  We stopped for a burger before going into the recruiter’s office.  Over lunch I asked her if she was sure this was what she wanted to do.  Navy life would be a huge change for a young lady that had never lived outside her home tiny town.  She remained steadfast and marched into the recruiter’s office without hesitation.  I was proud of her.  We left Batavia and she was very happy that she had enlisted.  Boot camp would not come until many months later but she had taken the big first step.

 

     Our return to Warsaw was a different story.  Aunt Bev was very dismayed at Jo’s news and not very happy with me, assuming that I had talked Jo into the decision.  Jo did a great job explaining to her mom that she wanted to advance her position in life and see the world.  Bev cried for a few days, and rightfully so...her only daughter was leaving the nest and would be living far away.

 

     Bev eventually forgave me for taking Jo to the recruiter and was so proud of Jo as she progressed through her Naval career.  She knew Jo had made the right choice.  Jo made good on her decision to “see the world”.  She had a great career culminating in her selection to Chief Petty Officer and retiring after 20 years of service to her country.  I am proud of her too and so sad that she is gone.

 

   Rest your oars, Chief.  You have done your part and had a wonderful impact all on all you touched.  We will miss you.

Posted by Craig Hoyt
Friday July 21, 2017 at 2:38 pm
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