JoAnn M. Bruce passed away on Dec. 21, 2022, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Yonkers following prolonged illnesses and complications of Covid-19. She was 69 years old.
The daughter of Henry and Martha (Bugielski) Bruce, she was born in Paterson, N.J.
JoAnn grew up in Central Valley and received formal art education at Parsons School of Design in New York City. She went on to work in retail advertising and art direction for Lord & Taylor, Macy’s and Elizabeth Arden.
In the mid-1990’s JoAnn moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. She loved living in California, making new friends and working in project management until compounding health issues necessitated her return to the Hudson River Valley area where she grew up.
JoAnn was a gifted artist, inspired by the iconic fashion illustrations of the mid-20th century. Her art exuded elegance, grace and flair. Her creativity was reflected in her fashionable attire, home decor and the jewelry she crafted with gemstones, crystals, beads and silver.
JoAnn was an avid and loyal lifelong Mets fan. She loved animals and adored all of the cats she adopted over the years.
JoAnn is survived by her sister Debra Stratton and her husband Rex of San Rafael, California. She leaves an aunt, a special godson, many cousins and friends near and far.
JoAnn will be greatly missed and dearly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Cremation took place at Cedar Hill Crematory in Middle Hope. Memorial services will be held at a later date.