Joanne Marie Gaskin

A passionate traveler, Joanne enjoyed outdoor activities like skiing and golfing, as well as interior decorating and promoting financial literacy. Most importantly, she cherished her family. In her later years in Florida, she basked in the sun by her pool, finding beauty and success in everything around her. Joanne was a brilliant and insightful thinker who inspired many through her personal and professional endeavors, shaping policies and programs that have positively impacted countless lives, including future generations. Her leadership, kindness and radiant smile brought joy to many throughout her life.

Born on August 15, 1960, in Pensacola, FL, Joanne was the third child and second daughter of Robert and Dee Thomas. Due to her father’s service in the U.S. Navy, she lived in various locations, including Virginia, California, and Mississippi, before settling in East Lansing, Michigan, in the summer of 1974. She graduated from East Lansing High School in 1978 and attended Michigan State University, where she was an active member of the Chi Omega sorority. Joanne loved her time at MSU, forming lasting friendships and creating cherished memories, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of Business in 1982.

Shortly after graduation, Joanne began a successful career in finance, starting at Merrill Lynch in Lansing. She later moved to the Detroit area, where she continued in the banking and financial services sector, most recently serving as an executive at FICO for 17 years. There, she made significant contributions, establishing a program focused on financial literacy and access to credit, empowering individuals to achieve their dreams. Outside of work, Joanne loved to travel, enjoying skiing in Colorado, beach getaways, and exploring new destinations. She had a deep appreciation for enduring quality and beauty, delighting in sharing exquisite meals with friends and family, curating both elegant attire and surroundings for her warm and inviting home.

Joanne’s greatest pride was her son, Connor. They shared a deep love for sports, travel, and hosting friends and family at their home in Canton, MI. Joanne took Connor on numerous adventures from a young age, including many trips to Disney World, visits to see grandparents in Tallahassee, and countless soccer tournaments across the Midwest. She frequently traveled to California to support Connor during his college years and watch him play soccer. Their travels also included memorable trips to Europe to cheer on their favorite team, Manchester United, and to see Joanne’s favorite players, David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Joanne is survived by her son, Connor Gaskin, of Santa Monica, CA; her stepmother, Linda Dean Thomas, of Tallahassee, FL; her sisters, Claire McMahon-Thomas of Albuquerque, NM, and Susan Nickel-Gregory of Cape Coral, FL; her brother, Robert Thomas, Jr., of Okemos, MI; and her nieces, Elizabeth Schoene, Emily Thomas, and Allison Nickel. She is predeceased by her father, Robert Thomas, and her mother, Dee Thomas.

The family will hold a private memorial celebration of Joanne’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an endowment fund established in her honor at Michigan State University. Link to donate: https://givingto.msu.edu/gift/?sid=18736