Joanne Martin

Joanne Martin, our beloved friend, partner, daughter, sister, Mom, Grandma, aunt, teacher, and colleague was taken to a better place during the early morning hours of March 9. A timely celebration of her life will take place tentatively on her birthday, Wednesday, May 5 with time/place to be determined. Call/text Christina Hale for updated details at (434) 531-1952.

Joanne was born May 5, 1955 in Paso Robles, CA. She was the fourth child of six children born to Alice Bolinger of Paso Robles, CA, who survives her, along with her siblings Sharon, Kathy, Mary (Lee), and Michael (Megan). A brother Gary predeceased her in 1954. Joanne is also survived by her boyfriend, Jim Anderson.

Joanne’s newest joy was the birth of her grand-daughter Dylan born July 2020 to Joanne’s daughter, Christina and husband Doug Hale of Virginia.

Throughout Joanne’s time on earth, she learned early on how to be independent and responsible as she managed to rent her own apartment and be employed while still in high school. Needless to say, she made many friends who popped over to share her pad and party like there was no tomorrow. Whether she worked as an efficient waitress (locally Garretts and The Solvang Restaurant) , persevering hardware cashier, or diligent English tutor/college instructor (SBCC, CSUN, Ventura CC), Joanne maintained her purposeful demeanor with an upbeat personality that made others feel comfortable. Even though she had to overcome several of life’s heaviest obstacles, Joanne maintained her zany sense of humor and generous soul.

In keeping with Joanne’s philosophy, let’s gather to share our fond, inspirational and musing stories for a unique woman who modeled a courageous and fighting life spirit to the end.