Judith LaVonne Joos

Judith LaVonne Durrant Joos

August 30,1936 to December 29, 2016

After a short illness, Judith passed away with Dan, her husband of 62 years, by her side  on December 29, 2016.  She was born August 30, 1936 to Willard E. and LaVonne Harkness Durrant . 

Judy was eleven when her mother died from cancer, leaving her to care for her nine month old sister, Connie.  From this time forward Judy devoted her life to serving and raising children, including nine of her own children. Neighbors, schoolchildren, cousins and foster children were drawn to Judy’s nurturing care.  She was delightedly hand making baby items for each of her 40 grandchildren and 50 plus great-grandchildren as they joined the family right up to the end.  Not only was she a positive influence on the lives of children, she was a mentor for their mothers.  She served as a Relief Society President at different stages of her life and uplifted women in whatever circumstances they were found: her neighborhood, the nursing home or in the state mental hospital. Judy shared her talents with everyone through her handmade works of art. She spent a lifetime quilting, knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch and other needlework.  Both her handiwork and those she taught will live on as her legacy.

She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Connie Jean Wright and half brother, Willard E. Durrant, Jr.

She is survived by her children: Jennifer Ronnow (Allan), Dan Rodney Joos (Susan), Darlene Pitcher (Dixon), Doreen Wright, Richard Joos (Shirley), Kenneth Joos, LaVonne Tobert (Michael), Deanne Sotomayer, Dr. David Joos (Jennifer) and all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by her sisters Jackie Bowen (Glen) and Kathy Davis (Craig); and her step-brother, Ray Paskett.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation to Glen and Jackie Bowen for their constant, loving care and service over many years.

Graveside Services will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2017 at 11 am at the Salt Lake City Cemetery, 200 North “N” Street, Salt Lake City, Utah.  A viewing will be held Wednesday evening, January 4, 2017 from 6 to 8 pm at Aaron’s Mortuary, 496 24th Stre