Joan Perdue

She was born in Iron Mountain to Sam and Katherine (Beaudin) Pollard. She lived in Green Bay, Wis., for most of her life. Following her husband’s passing she moved to Tucson to be near her daughter.

On June 15, 1963, she married the love of her life, Lane, and together they built a beautiful life, raising four children who were her pride and joy. Nothing meant more to her than time spent surrounded by family. Her signature potato salad, black bottom cupcakes and cherry torte will long be remembered.

Throughout her life, she cared for more than 100 children, many of whom were welcomed into her established family child care center, Little Rascals. Through her gentle guidance, steady patience and unwavering kindness, she created a nurturing early learning environment that left a lasting imprint on generations of families. To the children she cared for, she was more than a caregiver; she was a steady hug, a listening ear and a safe place to grow.

She was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, rarely missing a game and cheering them on with unwavering loyalty. She loved classic country music, lively card games of Smear and Hand and Foot, competitive rounds of Scrabble and Words With Friends, trips to the casino and keeping a spotless home, especially when it came to her sparkling windows.

Her adventurous spirit carried her across 44 states, always eager to see what was around the next bend. She hoped one day to visit all 50, and her children have lovingly promised to carry her with them and spread her ashes in the final six, ensuring her journey continues.

Joan is survived by her four children, Debbie (Warren) Brisson, Susan (Tom) O’Donnell, Gary (Shawna) Perdue and Randy (Beth) Perdue; her seven precious grandchildren, Jessica (Adam) Harrington, Audra (Christopher) Johnson, Kristen O’Donnell, Dan (Becca) O’Donnell, Max (Megan) Perdue, Anthony Perdue and Alex Perdue; 10 great-grandchildren, with one more expected soon; her beloved baby sister, Linda Polkinghorne; sister-in-laws Linda (Jerry) Makela and Iris Eldridge; brother-in-law Dallas (Peggy) Perdue; and many nieces, nephews and friends who were present in her life until the end.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lane; infant son Danny; her parents; brother Carl Pollard; sister-in-law Judy Pollard; brothers in-laws Roger Polkinghorne and Marvin Perdue.

A family celebration of life is planned in Arizona on May 16. If you wish to donate in her memory, she expressed wishes for any food bank, any diaper bank or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.