JoAnne (Gotte) Stokes

Mrs. JoAnne (Gotte) Stokes, age 77, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on July 30, 1936, JoAnne was the daughter of the late Salvatore and Mary (Leone) Gotte. Raised and educated locally, she attended T.R. Proctor High School. On September 29, 1956 in St. Agnes Church, she married John B. Stokes, Sr. with whom she shared 46 years in a wonderful and enduring relationship focused on their family. John passed away on January 16, 2003. During her younger years, JoAnne held a position at the Mele Manufacturing Company and later worked as a Nurse’s Aide at the Presbyterian Home and at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. She also took part in the operation of the family business, John B. Stokes & Sons Firewood Company. JoAnne was selflessly committed to the needs of others and always displayed devotion to her family. She was creative and strong-willed as well as sensitive and compassionate. She was active in each of her children’s lives, attending all their school and sporting functions and activities. She took pride in her cooking and baking and welcomed her children and grandchildren to her home. She lived her life with an unconditional love for her family. She was a member of the PTA, and a Committee person for the Republican Club. She was a parishioner of St. Thomas Church. JoAnne is survived by her children and their families, Salvatore J. and Karen Stokes of Frankfort, Mary Ruth and Scott Williamson, Jr. of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, John B. Jr. and Anna Stokes of Schuyler, JoAnne and Larry O’Grady of Westmoreland, Thomas H. and Todd T. Stokes of Rome, Patricia “Patty” and Gary Vicknair of Maurepas, LA, William L. Stokes of New Hartford, and Lorry Ann and Donald Cuda of Utica; her grandchildren, Scott Jr., Larry Jr., Shannon, Carson, Miranda, Nicholas, Lauren, Kimberly, George, MaryBeth, Elaina, and Joseph; her great-grandchild, Peyton; and several step-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her sisters and brother-in-law, Carol Brough of Utica, and Sally and Thomas Rastani of Marcy; her canine companion, Trixie; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Marie “Mickey” and Edward Thompson of New Hartford. She was predeceased by her sisters, Rita Sparrow, and Rosemary Lamere; and her brother, Joseph Gotte. The family is grateful to the New Hartford Fire Rescue for their immediate and compassionate response. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend JoAnne’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Thursday morning at 9:30 at St. Thomas Church, 150 Clinton Road, New Hartford where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. David Sears. Interment will follow graveside at Calvary Cemetery.

JoAnne (Gotte) Stokes

July 30, 1936 - December 8, 2013