Dearest Joan:

Scripture tells us that a good woman is priceless.  You were a gem, Joan. What a blessing you have been to me and to Companions.  I don’t know where to begin and am not sure I can put into words the many ways you graced our lives and work.  I am just so grateful.

What a blessing you have been to me and to Companions. I don’t know where to begin and am not sure I can put into words the many ways you graced our lives and work. I am just so grateful.

I loved coming to your house to pick up the supplies people had left for us there. Bill liked coming with me. We would often chuckle because you would tell me on the phone that there was so much there. “You can’t possible get it all in your car, Jana.” I don’t remember a time when we had to make a second trip.

You worried about Companions and our programs. You cared about all of us and all of the volunteers who stopped by to put things in your garage. You befriended us all.

How many hours did you spend sorting cards and magazines, other supplies that came in. You were such a help to me, all of us. You made it possible for us to serve prisoners and their families in the ways we wanted.

You taught me to pace myself. You were still doing yard work into your 80’s. I would ask how you did it. You said you would take breaks and sit and enjoy the beauty of your yard. You taught me to open myself to all I meet. You certainly did that. I still smile about the fact that you passed your driver’s test at 93. You were grateful for that I know. I think you were a little proud of yourself as well you should.

I love sitting and chatting with you. Thank you for being such a good friend and woman. Thank you for caring so much. I feel so privileged to have known you and will miss you.

Enjoy your new life. You deserve every good thing it surely has brought you including being able to dance with your husband.


With much love,
Jana Minor