Joan Carol Aston Clarkson died Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo. Joan was born January 28, 1943, in Alabama. She was the daughter of James O’Neal Aston and Rose Mary Nickols Aston. Mrs. Joan dedicated many years to Ingalls Shipbuilding before retiring and starting a new chapter in Las Vegas. There, she began a second career at Walmart, where she worked for 23 years. During this time, she relocated to Tupelo, continuing her hardworking and resilient spirit until her second retirement. Mrs. Joan had a deep and abiding love for her family, always cherishing the time spent together. She was an avid reader, finding joy and inspiration in the pages of her favorite thriller books. A passionate fan of Alabama football, she cheered on the Crimson Tide with unwavering enthusiasm. She had a deep love for traveling, with a special fondness for visiting Italy. Mrs. Joan was a devoted member of St. James Catholic Church, actively participating in the women’s ministry and delivering Meals on Wheels alongside her daughter.
Mrs. Joan is survived by her daughter, Lisa Gerwe; and siblings, Jim Aston, Bill Aston, Dorothy Willingham, and David Aston.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Clarkson; parents, James and Rose Mary Aston; and oldest brother, George Aston.
A memorial service honoring her life will be announced soon.
Memorials may be made to North Shore Animal League, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
