Joanna Repasy

Joanna June (Fleming) Repasy passed away on September 7, 2025, in Bismarck, ND.

She was born on September 27, 1929, in Salem, IL, to Robert Fleming and Lola Prather Fleming. She grew up in a large family with siblings Eleanor, Mary Lois, Robert, William, and James.

On January 22, 1949, Joanna married Steve J. Repasy in Danville, IL. They shared many happy years together until Steve’s passing in 1977 in an accident at General Motors. Together they raised five children: Patrick, Jerry, Kathryn, Steven, and James. Joanna’s family grew to include seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who brought her endless joy.

Joanna worked hard throughout her life and later managed Pet and Hobby World in Bloomington, IL, before retiring and moving to Murfreesboro, TN, to be near her grandchildren.

She was a woman of many talents and interests. A great bowler, she played in leagues for many years. She loved knitting, sewing, quilting, and embroidery, and her kitchen was always full of the delicious food she baked and cooked. She enjoyed traveling across the United States, went twice to Italy, and even made it to Seattle when Mt. St. Helens erupted—collecting ash from the gutters as a keepsake.

Family was at the center of Joanna’s life. She was always ready to help in any situation and treasured every gathering—whether at a beach house, on a cruise, camping in the pouring rain, or simply being together from coast to coast. She never forgot a birthday, kept in touch through letters, and made countless Thanksgiving dinners—chaotic at times, but always wonderful. Her handwritten recipes, sometimes missing a step or two, remain a special part of her family’s memories.

Joanna loved to play Euchre and rummy, often driving 70 miles just for a card game, even if it meant spending the night. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading, and the simple joys of life.

She will be remembered as a devoted mom, grandma, and friend whose love, warmth, and humor touched everyone around her.