Joan E. Grantham

Joan E. Grantham, 90, of Walnut Grove, passed away peacefully in her home,
surrounded by her family, on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2020. She was the daughter
of George and Maude (Wilson) Zongker and was born on March 2, 1930 in
Everton. On Sept. 23, 1951 Joan and Gordon Grantham were married and
shared almost 69 years together.
Grantham was a lifelong area resident, except for a few years as a young
girl, traveling to find work with her family during the Great Depression. After
graduating high school she went to work in Springfield at a jewelry store,
then went to work at a creamery, working in the office.
In 1951, she began her most treasured career of being a farmer’s wife. Joan
and Gordon went to live on the farm and have been in the same home for
almost 69 years. She loved being a farmer’s wife and was always helping.
She was the oldest member of Oak Grove Church at her death. She taught
classes, sang in the choir, served several years as the church secretary and
treasurer, and was an example for all. After her children had grown, she was
on the first committee to provide meals on wheels in the area. She worked
with that organization for as long as her health would allow.
Grantham is survived by her husband, Gordon; daughters, Connie Kollmeyer
and husband Jeff, Christa Clawson and husband Roger, Carol Grantham and
husband Rick Pinegar; seven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and
counting; two nieces, one nephew, other family and many friends.
Grantham is preceded in death by her parents and son, Stephen Grantham.
Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2020 at Greene
Lawn Cemetery, Walnut Grove.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Grantham’s name to
Oak Grove Church and may be left at the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Walnut
Grove