Mary "JoAnn" Abeln

Mary (JoAnn) Beard Abeln, born November 6th, 1932 passed away May 5th, 2026 at the age of 93.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Ray Abeln, son Dale Ray Abeln, two brothers Edward Earl (Butch) Beard, Jr, and Harold Eugene Beard.

She is survived by daughters, Brenda (Ed) Connelly, Sheree Meyer, Diane (Tom) Hester, son Dale (Deceased) Linda Abeln, Dean Abeln, and sisters Joyce (Norm - deceased) McDaniel, Marlene (Jerry) Pochynek, Elaine Beard, brothers Albert (Dena) Beard, Marvin (Susan) Beard, and Pete (Cindy) Beard.

She was the beloved matriarch, loved and cherished by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild.

JoAnn devoted her life to caring for her family and faithfully supporting her church, friends and family.

No one ever left her home hungry. There was always something warm on the table, even if it was a small snack shared alongside a heartfelt conversation and laughter as she caught up on the lives she loved so dearly. She was lifelong music lover and always danced to the beat of life.

She was a strong inspiring woman who had a gift for putting life into perspective if you needed advice.

She kept gratitude in one pocket and determination (what Peck fondly called stubbornness) in the other, guiding her through decades.

She cared for her home, tended the garden, raised five children, and made sure the love of her life and husband Lewis Ray always had everything he needed. She lived simply, never complaining or asking for more, but instead offering constant prayers for her family.

She was a beautiful soul, and her love, strength, and faith will remain a legacy in all who knew her.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

A visitation for JoAnn will be held from 6:00 PM until time of memorial service at 7:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2026 at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Athens Christian Church.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family.