Joan “Joni” Lessor, 81, formerly of Mason City

Joan “Joni” Lessor, 81 of Huntsville, AL and formerly of Mason City passed away Friday, October 11, 2024 in Huntsville, AL.

Funeral Services will be held 10:30 am Thursday, October 17, 2024 at Epiphany Parish – St. Joseph Catholic Church, 302 5th St SE, Mason City with Deacon Jim Wolfe. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City. 

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until service time on Thursday at the church. 

Joan Marie Lessor, affectionately known as “Joni” was born September 27, 1943, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin to Theron Isador and Luella Fern (Burkholder) Lessor. Joni’s life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and joy that touched everyone she knew.

Growing up in Mason City, Joni was a graduate of Newman Catholic High School, where she formed the foundation of her lifelong values and friendships. Her career spanned several decades and included positions at 1st National Bank in Mason City, US Bank in Newton, and over 25 years of service at Walmart until her retirement. Joni’s work ethic and commitment to customer service were unparalleled, and she cherished the daily interactions with her customers, many of whom became friends.

On April 22, 1984 she married Jimmy “JJ” Jones in Mason City. Two families joined, adding more children and grandchildren to love. 

Joni loved going to the races, especially when her grandson Devin was at the wheel. She was a devoted fan of her soap operas, and took great pleasure in watching her family members play in the band

Above all, Joni was a family woman. Her love for her children, Shelly, Daryl, Tammy, Tim, and Jamie was boundless. She reveled in her role as a grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. Her sisters, Mary and Karen, shared in the close-knit family bond that Joni held dear. Her best friend, Bonnie Mussman, was a constant source of companionship and support, and their friendship stood as a testament to Joni’s capacity for deep and enduring connections.

Joni’s life was a journey of love, laughter, and dedication. She doted on her family whenever the opportunity arose, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared by those who loved her and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and generosity.

Surviving are her children, Shelly (Brad) Cagle, Daryl (Elsa) Snow, Tammy (Joe) Snow Jackie, Tim (Heather) Jones, Jamie (Becky) Jones; 14 grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren; sisters, Mary (Harold) Embry and Karen (James) Bell; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. 

Joni was preceded in death by her beloved parents and grandparents, her cherished husband, Jimmy “JJ” Jones, her dear brother, Robert William Lessor, and her treasured ‘bonus son’ Terry Jones. 

Her legacy, however, continues through the lives of her loving family and many friends who will remember her fondly.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapels. 641-423-2372. ColonialChapels.com