Joanne Patterson Stewart of Scottsboro, Alabama peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones on Monday, January 19, 2026 at the age of 95. Her life was highlighted by devotion to God and family, strength of spirit, and compassion for others. She will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her.
Joanne was born in New Market, Alabama on September 22, 1930. Her family moved to Hazel Green when she was 12. After graduating from Hazel Green High School, she attended and graduated from Florence State Teachers College with a degree in education. She returned to teach in Hazel Green until marrying John Milton Stewart in 1958. Joanne continued to teach, while caring for her growing family and moving as far away as Libya, Africa for John Milton’s career in the U.S. Air Force.
In 1971, Joanne settled with her husband and two daughters in Scottsboro, where she became actively involved in the First United Methodist Church; if the doors were open, she was likely there. She taught at Caldwell Elementary School, first in the Title I reading program for a year and then third grade for twenty years. Her passion for teaching often led her back to the school to read to classes after she retired in 1992.
In retirement, Joanne was active in numerous organizations, including Meals on Wheels, Scottsboro Beautification Council, Jackson County Retired Teachers Association, United Methodist Women, Nourish One Child, and Hilltoppers. She found joy spending time and traveling with family and friends and remained deeply devoted to her husband, daughters, and grandchildren.
Joanne is survived by her daughters, Rosemary Stewart (Harry) Kipreos and Ann Stewart Rezabek, and sister-in-law, Lila Stewart Newman. She is also survived by her three grandchildren, Amanda Kipreos (Alex) Lyle, Nicolas (Jennifer) Kipreos, and Rachel Rezabek; three great-grandchildren, James and Julie Lyle and Oliver Kipreos; and many dear nieces and nephews.
Preceding Joanne in death was her husband, John Milton Stewart; parents, Frank and Clemice Patterson; and sister, Nancy Patterson Brown.
The family will receive friends during visitation from 12-1 pm on Thursday, January 29 at the First United Methodist Church in Scottsboro. Funeral services will begin at 1 pm, with Dr. Steven Screws officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First United Methodist Church in Scottsboro or the charity of your choice.
