Joanne Lois Hagen, devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, quietly departed this life on January 2 nd of 2025 at the Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
“Jo” was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Theresa (Loeffler) Jacobs, of
Michigan. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Gary Charles Hagen, her
brother, Eric Louis Jacobs (married to Marianne), her daughter, Melinda Jo Johnson
with grandsons Bohdan and Liam Johnson, and her son, Derek Gary Hagen (married to Michelle) with grandsons Derek and Dylan Hagen.
Born on August 7 th , 1946, Joanne brightened the world around her for the entirety of her 78 years. She was an honors graduate of Richmond High School in 1965 and earned her associate’s degree in business administration from LeHigh Valley College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. She married Gary on September 6 th , 1969, then proudly dedicated her life to supporting her husband’s career while simultaneously raising their children and filling their homes with love and warmth. Joanne never met a stranger, building friendships in every state of residence, including Michigan, Pennsylvania, Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. She radiated exceptional joy and kindness and was well known for her contagious laughter. When she wasn’t busy investing in her family directly, you would likely find her outside maintaining her breathtaking gardens or inside sewing meaningful quilts to give away. She was a keeper of celebrations, a host of family gatherings, and the glue that held us together. Joanne’s beautiful life will forever be reflected in the lives of her children and grandchildren.
A private Celebration of Life will be held with family to honor her memory on a later date.