Joanne R McIntyre

Joanne was born on November 13, 1931 in her beloved town of Tallassee, Alabama where she was raised by her single mother, Pattie Ruffin, and two older sisters, Florence and Nelda. Times were hard during the Great Depression and her mother worked long hours in the local cotton mill to provide for the family.

Joanne excelled in school, graduating in 1950. A member of Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, she went on to obtain both undergraduate and master degrees in Education from Auburn University. Her love of learning continued throughout her life. At the age of 75, she completed a rigorous two-year Latin study program online.

Joanne devoted her career to the children of Duval County, first as an elementary school teacher and, later, as a guidance counselor at Ft. Caroline Middle School where she worked for over 25 years. Her love of children extended to her family where she was an exemplary mother to her daughter, Lee Cobb Miller (Edward) of St. Augustine, and son, Stephen Cobb (Kelly) of Jacksonville.

She is also survived by her treasured grandchildren; Lauren Orban (Daniel), Whitney Scrabis (Stephen), Parker Cobb, and Matthew Cobb. She leaves behind her great-grandsons; Chase Schachner, Luke Orban, Noah Orban, and Jack Orban. She will be forever loved and remembered by step-son, Tom McIntyre (Dan), her nieces, Lane Curington (Jerry), Deb Walling (Dave) and nephew, Wayne Fuqua (Nina).

For her 90th birthday, family and friends came from near and far for an unforgettable celebration of her long and accomplished life. As her health declined, she was surrounded by “all her people” in the days preceding and following her death. There will be no service as her loved ones gathered and mourned privately. The family asks that in lieu of flowers or remembrances, donations be made to an educational institution of the sender’s choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/jacksonville-cremation for the McIntyre family.