Joann Helen Luria's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Joann Helen Luria, who left us on April 22, 2025, at the age of 86.
Born in 1939 in Cleveland, Ohio, Joann was the cherished daughter of Helen and Joseph Racut, whom she loved with all her heart. Their close and loving relationship helped shape the kindhearted and spirited woman she would become.
Joann was a devoted wife to her husband, Albert, whom she first met while attending Ohio University. Al was studying journalism and working part-time as a busboy in the dining hall where Joann regularly ate. Hoping to catch her eye, he made a point of slipping an extra helping of vegetables onto her plate -- knowing full well that she couldn't stand eating veggies. Joann, who always had just the right spark to keep Al on his toes, took note. Though she initially vowed to get even, Al's charm won her over, and what began as playful mischief soon blossomed into a lifelong love. Their college romance grew into decades of unconditional love, steadfast companionship, and a life rich with shared memories.
Together with Al, Joann built a home filled with encouragement, learning, and adventure. She was a deeply dedicated and loving mother to her four children - Joe (Mary) Luria, Jackie (Keith) Gere, John Luria, and Joyce Stone and the proud grandmother of eight adoring grandchildren - Kelsey (Madison) Gere, Brian Luria, David Luria, Rebekah Gere, Samantha Barchet, Emily Luria, Jack Barchet, and Andrew Barchet. The family also lovingly includes Elisabetta Paolozzi, a cherished former exchange student who became like a daughter to Joann. Her family was her heart.
A passionate and dedicated middle school teacher until her retirement in 2002, Joann touched the lives of generations of students with the spark she brought to the classroom. More than a career, teaching was her calling and the way she left her mark on the world, one student at a time.
Outside of her professional life, Joann embraced every season with joy. She loved skiing in the winter, carving down snowy slopes with the Independence Middle School ski club. When the sun came out, you could typically find her poolside at Elmwood Park-her summertime sanctuary-watching her children swim, as she soaked up the sunshine and shared stories with friends.
Joann had an infectious love of dancing and never passed up an opportunity to move to music. From performing Polish folk dances as a child to spinning around the kitchen with her grandchildren, her joyful spirit could always be found in the rhythm of her steps.
In her later years, Joann faced the challenges of dementia with remarkable grace. Though memories faded and moments became more fragile, her joyful spirit remained untouched. Her mischievous laughter still warmed hearts and her love for those around her never dimmed. Even in those quiet, difficult days, she continued to love, dance, and shine.
Joann leaves behind a legacy of grace and compassion. She lived a life centered around family, community, and unwavering devotion to others-a life that quietly lifted up everyone around her.
We invite Joann's family, friends, and former students to join us in celebrating her life. A visitation will be held at St. Michael's Church, 6912 Chestnut Road, in Independence, Ohio, on April 29 at 11:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:00 PM. Immediately following the Mass, we will proceed to Maple Shade Cemetery for the burial. Your presence would mean a great deal to the family as we gather to remember and celebrate Joann's life. In lieu of flowers, we would ask that you consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association, https://www.alz.org/.
Rest in peace, Joann. Your memory is a blessing. In the stillness between breaths, in the silence of the heart, you are with us. You are loved.
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