JoAnn Caldwell

JoAnn Caldwell, 89, of Old Town, Florida, passed away on August 26, 2026. She was born on July 20, 1937, in Hart, West Virginia, to Sherman Abbott and Bell Atkins Abbott. JoAnn grew up in Hart, West Virginia, and later moved to White Pigeon, Michigan. She married Thomas G. Caldwell, and together they built a business, raised their two daughters, and created a life centered around hard work, family, and many wonderful memories. JoAnn and Thomas remained devoted to one another until his passing in 2015. JoAnn was the loving mother of two daughters, the late Dottie Markley Blizman and Sheila Whitman and her husband, Russell Whitman. She was a proud grandmother to Aaron Kennedy and his wife, Bethany; Brett Markley and his wife, Ashley; Brittany McLoughlin and her husband, Robbie; and Skylar Bragg and his wife, Molly. She was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren: Kirra McLoughlin, Reese McLoughlin, Cora Kennedy, Nolan Kennedy, Finley Markley, Duke Markley, Atticus Bragg, and Sebastian Bragg. During their retirement years, JoAnn and Thomas moved to Sarasota, Florida. Together they enjoyed being part of the Gold Wing motorcycle community and traveling throughout the United States. Their travels brought them many adventures and wonderful memories together. JoAnn enjoyed traveling, crocheting, caring for her plants, and, most importantly, her family. She rarely missed a school or athletic event involving her grandchildren and was always incredibly proud of their accomplishments. Her greatest joy was watching her family grow and spending time with those she loved. Quiet by nature, JoAnn never needed to be the center of attention. She showed her love through the things she did for others and was always willing to help her family in any way she could. JoAnn also had a special love for her two cats, who were beloved companions and brought her great comfort and happiness. She leaves them behind along with a family who knew just how much they meant to her. Another special part of JoAnn's life was the close relationship she shared with her cousin, LouAnn. The two could spend hours talking on the phone, sharing stories, catching up on family, and simply enjoying each other's company. Later in life, JoAnn especially enjoyed riding through Old Town with her daughter Sheila, taking in the wide-open fields, wildflowers, and the natural beauty of the area's springs. Those quiet rides together became treasured moments and special memories. JoAnn may have been quiet, but the love she had for the people—and animals—who were part of her life spoke volumes. She will be remembered for her devotion to her family, the pride she took in each of them, and the many years of memories she created with those she loved most. A funeral service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida, on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at the home of her grandson Brett Markley and his wife, Ashley, at 7602 Coronet Drive, Sarasota, Florida. JoAnn's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the hospice care team for the compassion, kindness, and support they provided to JoAnn throughout her final journey, as well as the care and guidance they gave her family during this difficult time. The family would also like to thank everyone for their kind words, prayers, well wishes, and support. JoAnn's life was filled with many adventures, but the greatest part of her story was always her family. She loved them deeply, celebrated them proudly, and leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue through the generations she loved so dearly.

JoAnn Caldwell

July 20, 1937 - August 26, 2026