MACAE would like to extend its sympathies to the family and dear friends of Joanne Lovell. The former community education program director, educator and supporter of MACAE, passed away November 22.

Joanne was the Director of Community Education for Portland Schools for more than 25 years before retirement. Though she officially "retired" from the position, Joanne never retired from her dedication and advocacy for education and support of MACAE.

“Over the past few years while I have been with MACAE, she has sent notes of encouragement and shared some of her own experiences as well,” said Katie Wolf, executive director of MACAE.

Marilyn Stock, current director of Portland Adult and Community Education, said Joanne spent many years helping everyone with her generous heart and caring way.  “She had an amazing ability to connect with everyone she met with her quick-witted humor, but at the same time wasn’t afraid to tell it like it was. She taught people, including myself, about life’s lessons,” Stock said.

Though Joanne has left us, it is evident through the words of former co-workers and students, that a legacy has been left.

“Joanne was an absolutely wonderful lady,” said Trina VanSiclen in an online guestbook provided by Schrauben-Lehman Funeral Homes. “If it had not been for her, I would never had graduated. When I wanted to give up and quit, she would drive the van to my house and say, ‘Let’s go Trina, you’re going to school now.’ She would not let me quit. When I graduated, she was so proud of me. She had such a big heart and helped so many people and will be dearly missed.”

Joanne loved to spend her time fishing, doll collecting and following Michigan State University athletics.

Funeral services were held November 28.

Joanne is survived by her husband of 49 years, Kendall, her children Lori DeKett, Kelly Lovell and Kevin (Sandra) Lovell, her mother, Lorraine Adamson, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.