Joanna J

Avery

Joanna J. Avery

February 11, 1947 – November 9, 2026

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To many, Joanna was simply 'Auntie,' a name that spoke to the warmth and care she gave to everyone who came into her life.

Joanna J. Avery, 79, of Athens, Maine, passed away on November 9, 2026, after a brave and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on February 11, 1947, Joanna was a lifelong resident of Athens, where she grew up, attended school, and made her home. On October 19, 1968, she married the love of her life, Alton Avery Jr., and for 58 years the two built a life together. Joanna was a devoted housewife.

To many, Joanna was simply “Auntie,” a name that spoke to the warmth and care she gave to everyone who came into her life.

Joanna loved to bake and loved to sew. Joanna’s Pineapple Cookies, Biscuits, and Pies were specialties that will be remembered, and missed, by all who were lucky enough to taste them. When she wasn't baking or sewing, she could often be found at the table putting a puzzle together, piece by piece. She also loved spending time at County Fairs and attending Local Country Music Shows. Joanna also, enjoyed being Altons “supervisor” with his many projects including firewood and deer processing.

Joanna is survived by her husband, Alton Avery Jr. and many “nieces” “nephews” and cousins. She was predeceased by her grandmother Rosie Corson on December 16,1984, her mother, Welma Corson on February 22,1999, and her brother, Freeland Corson on February 12, 2014.

Alton extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Redington Fairview Hospital and MaineGeneral Oncology/Hospice for their kindness and compassion. He is especially grateful to Kelly, Frannie, and Heather, who took the time to comfort Joanna and bring smiles to her face with their jokes and humor.

Alton offers a very special thank you to “niece” Sharon, who made sure Joanna got to countless doctor’s appointments and treatments, and who lovingly cared for Auntie until her last breath.

Alton would also like to send a special Thank You to friends Mike and Ralph who also took the time to spend the night and help with care for Joanna and also through this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will take place on December 12, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Somerset Academy, 18 School St., Athens, Maine. Burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery will follow at a later date.

Joanna will be forever loved and remembered by all who knew her.