Joan A. White (THOMSON, Ga.)

THOMSON, Ga. - Mrs. Joan A. White "Mema", 72, lost her battle with cancer in the comfort of her family at her home in Thomson, Georgia on October 31st. She retired from Sue Reynolds Elementary as the school's lunchroom manager after 18 years of dedicated service to the health and happiness of every child that came down the line. To say she was selfless, passionate, independent, willful, fun, and one of a kind doesn't begin to describe the enormity of her presence. She was enchanted by nature, nurturing bountiful gardens and harnessing the beauty of the world around her. She loved the lake, providing unforgettable memories in the waters of Clark's Hill. She respected animals, instilling compassion for all living things into the hearts of her family. She was creative, possessing the infallible ability to make seemingly mundane situations exciting and fun. Most of all, she cherished her family and friends with unwavering devotion and unmatched fervor. No situation, regardless of its magnitude, was insurmountable and she stressed the importance of independence, pride, and self-esteem. It is because of these qualities that her memory and her impact in this world will be eternal. She was a hero to many. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Robert "Bob" White, who tirelessly cared for her in life and in death; her only child Shirley White Porylo; her grandchildren Damon White, Heather Ridgdill, and Amber Ridgdill; her great grandchildren Toby White and Lynzie White; her siblings Mary Jane Neundank of Wisconsin, Patricia Wurth of Iowa, Eugene Gureski of Wisconsin, Lawrence Gureski, of Wyoming, and Jim Gureski of Wisconsin; and her lifelong family friends, Ursula and Jean Dozier, whose children, Jean, Michael and Jeanette she embraced as her own grandchildren. Joan blessed her family with wisdom, strength, and undying love. Her cremains will be scattered in a private family service at her childhood farm in Wisconsin and in the mountains of Wyoming. The family wishes to thank Dr. Limbaugh and his staff, Odyssey Healthcare, and all of their family and friends for their support and dedication in caring for Joan and her family throughout her illness. Condolences may be sent to the family c/o Elliott Sons Funeral Home, 4255 Columbia Road, Martinez, GA 30907. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

The Augusta Chronicle-November 3, 2009