Joanne C. Cowan Smothers Fitzpatrick

Loving Memory of Joanne C. Cowan Smothers Fitzpatrick

With deep sorrow and abiding faith, we announce that Joanne C. Cowan Smothers Fitzpatrick peacefully entered eternal rest on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on April 5, 1929, she lived a life shaped by love, dedication, and creativity.

Joanne is survived by her children: Deborah Bauer, Robert Smothers II, and Jeffrey Smothers (Cheri). She leaves behind a lasting legacy through her 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Cowan and Anna Westfall Cowan; her first husband, Robert Smothers I; her second husband, James Fitzpatrick; her son, James R. Smothers; her daughter, Sharon Noonan; and her great-granddaughter, Zaina M. Ayacat.

A proud graduate of Burnham High School, Joanne spent much of her life in Sylvania before moving to North Canton, Ohio, in 2014 to live with her daughter, Deborah. In September 2024, she transitioned to St. Joseph Senior Living, where she spent her final months.

Throughout her life, Joanne took pride in her work, bringing diligence and expertise to every role. She began as a bookkeeper at Owens Illinois, later supporting students as part of the cafeteria staff at her children’s school. Her career then took her into the world of retail, where she served as a salesperson at LaSalle’s Department Store before transitioning to the business office when it became Macy’s. She completed her professional journey as an Administrative Assistant at Golden Haven Nursing Home.

While Joanne was accomplished in her career, her true passion was found in creativity. Whether arranging delicate dried flowers, painting ceramics at the Sylvania Senior Center, or stitching intricate embroidery, she transformed simple materials into cherished works of art.

Joanne loved to socialize and was a proud member of the Red Hat Society. She was also an active participant in TOPS, consistently earning Gold Star awards and being recognized as a KOPS Alumni. Additionally, Joanne was a longstanding and dedicated member of the Joseph W. Diehn American Legion Post’s Women’s Auxiliary.

Among the many sources of happiness in her life was her beloved pet, Lulu. More than a companion, Lulu provided laughter, comfort, and steadfast friendship; their bond brought Joanne immeasurable happiness every day.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Joseph’s Senior Living and Elara Caring Hospice for their dedicated care during her final days.

The family invites you to join them in celebrating Joanne's life Thursday, May 22, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer SW Chapel, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, (419-381-1900). The funeral service, a time to honor her memory and legacy, will take place on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Joanne will be laid to rest following the service at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites you to honor Joanne's memory by contributing to Planned Pethood Inc. (plannedpethood.org), a trusted local rescue dedicated to finding loving forever homes for cats, kittens, dogs, and puppies in Northwest Ohio.