Joan's journey ended on Friday, May 13, 2022, with her niece by her side, after a long battle with dementia. Joan was born on May 18, 1942, in Joplin, MO to the late Daniel and Mary (Chatham) Cleaver. She graduated from Joplin High School in 1960, where she enjoyed playing the Cello. After high school she attended business college and worked for a local tool and die company for several years. Later She went to work for Montgomery Wards for 25 years until her retirement and their closing. Joan volunteered at elections, loved quilting and genealogy research, and having her dogs, but what was most important in her life was her relationship with her Lord and Savior. Joan was a devout Christian all her life, attending Villa Heights Christian Church and Park Plaza church before moving to Colorado in 2020 to be closer to her family.
In 2011 she miraculously survived the tornado the hit Joplin, she went on to rebuild her house that she had lived in for 43 years. Although she hid it for many years, she suffered from dementia for about 15 years where she became a very kind, giving, and loving person.
Joan is survived by her niece, Rhonda Cleaver of CO and nephew, Ronnie Cleaver of TX; and many other nieces, nephew, relatives and friends.
Along with her parents, Daniel and Mary, Joan is preceded in death by her brother Ron Cleaver Sr.; nephew, SSgt John Cleaver; cousins, Gary Chatham and Judy Chatham.