WINSLOW – Joanne L. Williams passed away peacefully on Nov. 13, 2022, at Woodlands Memory Care of Rockland after a battle with Alzheimer’s. Joanne was born in October of 1935 in Houlton, Maine to Dayton and Virgie (Ross) Vail. She grew up in Houlton as a true “county” girl, graduating from Houlton High School in 1953. She was a member of the National Honor Society and the high school cheering squad.

After high school Joanne continued her education at Eastern Maine General School of Nursing graduating at the top of her class as a Registered Nurse in 1956. It was during that time that she met George “Rick” Williams on a blind date. They were married in January of 1957 and eventually settled in Winslow where they raised four children together. During the early years of marriage, Joanne worked as an RN at Eastern Maine General Hospital and Thayer Hospital. In 1971 Joanne found her true calling as a nursing instructor for The Maine School of Practical Nursing which later became part of Kennebec Valley Community College. There she worked for over 18 years. Later in her career, she was a travelling nurse who visited nursing homes to prepare health assessments.

Joanne was an involved volunteer with many organizations including President of The Waterville Business and Professional Women’s Club, Maine Home for Little Wanderers and Maine General Health Auxiliary. In 1971, she was named one of the “Outstanding Young Woman of America”. She was a life-long learner and earned a degree from Thomas College in 1981, obtained her Certificate in Gerontological Nursing in 1991 and in retirement became a certified grief counselor.

Joanne and George were part owners of Northeast Travel in Waterville which gave them the opportunity to travel to many wonderful destinations. Upon retirement, they built a beautiful home in Lady Lakes, Florida where they wintered for about 10 years. Their family camp on Long Pond in Belgrade was a favorite place where they spent many memorable moments with family and friends. They later became part owners of several restaurants including Alfred’s and the Ground Round in Augusta.

Joanne was predeceased by her parents Dayton and Virgie (Ross) Vail, her sister Lois Loman, and granddaughter Heather Kornmann.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, George “Rick” Williams, her children Michael and Valerie Williams, Laurie and Gerry Lizotte, Judy and Zack Matthews, Holly and Ray Caron, ten grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, sister Joyce London and brothers Kerry Vail and Kim VaiI.

A private mass of Christian burial will be held at St. John’s church for immediate family.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, Waterville. An online guestbook mat be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital which was near and dear to her heart. St. Jude Children’s Hospital Memorial Giving 501 St. Jude Place,

Memphis, TN 38105

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