JoAnn Wier Ellison peacefully went home to be with the Lord on August 3, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, surrounded by her family. She was 92 years old.

Born March 7, 1934, in Covington, Texas to Joseph and Irene Wier, JoAnn grew up on her family's farm surrounded by a large and loving extended family. As an only child, she treasured her many cousins—and, as a little girl, her two beloved pet goats, Pat and Geraldine. Her family later moved to Itasca, where she graduated from Itasca High School in 1952.

JoAnn attended North Texas State University in Denton where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority and earned her degree in education. Throughout college, she continued dating her hometown sweetheart, Joe Ellison. They married in the summer of 1955, beginning a loving marriage that would span nearly five decades.

Joe and JoAnn first made their home in Itasca, where Joe farmed and JoAnn taught first grade. Their family grew with the birth of their two daughters, Paula and LeeAnne. In 1969, they moved to Sudan, Texas, where they built a life centered around farming, family, faith and friends.

JoAnn had a gift for making ordinary life beautiful. She was a wonderful cook who loved planning parties and showers, gathering friends for prayer, and creating a warm and welcoming home. She and Joe also shared a love of travel, setting out in their Airstream to explore the country. Their journeys through the American West—from Red River, New Mexico, all the way to the Pacific—became some of their happiest memories.

After Joe retired, they returned to North Texas to be near their daughters and growing families. Their years as "Grandmom and Grandy" were among their most treasured. Their home was filled with toys, games, sleepovers, big breakfasts, and laughter—and a battery-operated Jeep that every grandchild wanted to drive. More than anything, their grandchildren knew that Grandmom and Grandy's house was a place where they were always welcome and deeply loved.

Following the loss of her beloved husband, Joe, in 2004, JoAnn eventually made her home in Dallas. There, a new chapter of her life took shape as she made new friends, traveled, joined Bible studies, and enjoyed weekly card games with neighbors. Her faith remained at the center of her life and inspired her to serve others. She became a Stephen Minister through Highland Park United Methodist Church, offering what came so naturally to her: a compassionate heart, a listening ear and genuine kindness.

At the heart of JoAnn's life was her love for the Lord and her devotion to her family. She made life sweeter, warmer, and more beautiful for those she loved, and she will always be loved beyond measure.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Parks Ellison, and her parents, Irene and Joseph P. Wier. She is survived by her daughters, Paula Dross (Dan) and LeeAnne Burk (Jeff), and her adored grandchildren, Benjamin and Jefferson (Ana) Burk and Matthew, Charlotte, and Kara Dross.

Her family is deeply grateful to the nurses and aides at The Plaza at Edgemere and to her hospice team, who cared for JoAnn with kindness, dignity, and respect during the final years of her life.

A celebration of JoAnn's life will be held Saturday, August 22, at 10:00 a.m. at Flower Mound United Methodist Church.

Flowers and memorial contributions may be sent in care of Flower Mound United Methodist Church, 3950 Bruton Orand Blvd., Flower Mound, Texas 75022, or to the charity of your choice.