March 12, 1945 – April 2, 2022

Joan Fitzsimons Evans, 77, was called home by her Lord and Savior in eternal peace, on April 2, 2022. She was at home and surrounded by her family and loved ones which was exactly as she would have wanted it. Joanie was born March 12, 1945, in New York, to Charles and Frances Fitzsimons. After getting married and becoming a mother to three beautiful children, Michael, Sharon and Michelle, the family moved to Friendswood, Texas in 1971 where she resided in the same home for 51 years. It was in that community where she completed her family with another son, Vincent and another daughter, Kathryn. As the kids grew and began having families of their own and now great grandchildren, she quickly became Grandma JoJo.

JoJo was blessed with a large and loving family. She is survived by her brother Terence Fitzsimons and her sister Diane Engel. In addition, her surviving children are:  Michael Keane, Sharon Henry and husband, William Henry, Michelle Williams and her husband, Russell Williams, Vincent Keane and his wife, Kevynn Keane, and Kathryn Henson and her husband, David Henson. JoJo also leaves behind a legacy of 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Notably, Joanie leaves behind her blessed friend of over 70 years, Julia Wiesenfeld (Judy) as well as her friend and companion, Princess, her 6-year-old Shiatsu puppy.

 JoJo was feisty, caring, fun-loving, and full of life. She cherished her time with family and friends. She had a welcoming light about her – she never met a stranger which is evident by the outpouring of support the family has received in the last few months. Her caring personality meant she put others before herself and constantly prayed for all of those around her. She had a knack for lighting up a room with her smile and laugh while making others at home. Even in her last days of treatments, her care team got the full JoJo experience coming in to check on her and stop for a smile. 

The family would like to personally thank all her amazing medical team members with their outstanding care, compassion, attentiveness to her and our family. It was an incredible blessing to us all.

A celebration of life is only fitting and honestly the only thing she would allow – details will be shared as soon as plans are completed. We look forward to seeing many of our loved ones to honor her and celebrate the impact she made on so many. In lieu of flowers, we are asking for her loved ones to continue making an impact in her name – whether that is a local animal shelter or charities focused on cancer or diabetes research and treatment. Most importantly, honor her memory by being available for your loved ones, picking up the phone and making someone smile, and simply live your life to the fullest while putting all of your endeavors in God’s hands.

We have lost our mother, best friend, and the most caring soul, but Heaven has gained an angel indeed! You will be missed, cherished, remembered, and loved forever in our hearts and minds…keep the sausage and peppers ready…until we see you again!