JoAnn Dennis lived a life rooted in faith, family, and kindness. She was a woman of wisdom, intelligence, curiosity, courage, perseverance, and humor. Wherever she went, she brought joy, laughter, and often a little bit of mischief. She loved music and dancing and was known for her lively spirit.

Born into a close‑knit Italian Catholic family, JoAnn's faith was central to her life from an early age.  She was educated at St. Patrick's grade school in Peoria, IL. the same school her father attended and went to Academy of Our Lady High School, also in Peoria, IL.   For a time, she considered becoming a nun and she fondly recalled visits to the classroom from Venerable Fulton Sheen during her high school years. Sundays were always spent attending Mass followed by brunch with extended family, a tradition she carried into her own family.

JoAnn demonstrated courage and devotion to family early in life. At the age of thirteen, she rescued her three‑year‑old brother from a dog attack, acting quickly, an action that may have saved both his eyesight and his life. Throughout her life, she never hesitated to step in when something was wrong and help was needed. She was also known for offering friendship to those who might otherwise be overlooked.

She met her husband at Bradley University, beginning a marriage marked by deep faith, love, and devotion that lasted 60 years. Together, they were often invited to speak to prayer groups about their marriage and shared commitment.

JoAnn devoted herself to her family and chose to remain at home while her children were growing up, ensuring a nurturing home, shared family meals, and steady support. She and her husband attended every school and extracurricular event for their children and later did the same for their grandchildren. Her wisdom and encouragement were a constant source of guidance for her family.

Later, JoAnn returned to work as a preschool teacher for underprivileged children in Peoria, Illinois. Despite significant test anxiety, she returned to college to earn her preschool teaching certificate. After moving to California, she managed a Hallmark store, where she developed a devoted team and lasting friendships.

Upon settling in San Diego, JoAnn and her husband became active members of the parish at San Rafael, assisting with youth ministry and participating in numerous church programs in various parishes here in "The Valley of the Angels" over the following 40 years. She remained involved in Bible studies, prayer groups, and parish ministries throughout her life.

JoAnn also found great joy in music, dancing, and cultural exploration. She enjoyed playing boogie‑woogie music on the piano, attending the San Diego Jazz Festival each Thanksgiving, and dancing the weekend away with her husband. She was deeply interested in Native American culture, attending Pow Wows, visiting Navajo reservations, collecting Native American drums and flutes, and participating in local drum circles.

After the passing of her husband, JoAnn relied on her faith, perseverance, and prayer life to navigate grief and declining health. Through continued participation in prayer groups and Bible studies, she came to peacefully accept God's will.

JoAnn will be deeply missed for her smile, wit, compassion, and unwavering love. She now rests in eternal peace, reunited in heaven with her beloved husband.

JoAnn Dennis was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony and Angeline Montefusco, and by her husband, Ron, with whom she shared 60 years of marriage.

She is survived by her daughter, Diana, of San Diego, CA; her son, Paul (Lisa), of San Diego, CA; her grandchildren, Catherine Niznik (Jack) and Joseph Sisson, all of San Diego, CA; and her brothers, Anthony Montefusco III (Pat), of Peoria, IL, and Allan Montefusco (Jo), of Cottonwood, AZ.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at San Rafael Parish, 17252 Bernardo Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92128, on April 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. A reception will be held immediately following the Mass, with interment afterward at Dearborn Memorial Park, Poway, CA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests Masses be offered for JoAnn or donations be made to St. Joseph's Indian School in her memory. Donations may be made online at https://give.stjo.org/ .