Joan Bigham

Joan Hamilton Bigham, age 71 died December 30th, 2020 in Grand Junction, Colorado after gracefully and courageously managing a series of medical conditions. She was loved by, brought smiles to, and touched the hearts of her friends, family, those she met, and those that cared for her.

Joan was born on June 9th, 1949 in Detroit, Michigan. She was the daughter of the late Bruce and Margaret Bigham and sister to the late Neil Davis Bigham. Later in life she was surprised to learn she had a sister, Pat Spisak of Duncan, South Carolina. They immediately made up for lost time and got to know each other through many trips and adventures together.

Joan graduated from Ashland High School and then went on to Ashland College to earn her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1977. She retired from a fundraising career at Western Reserve Academy after many years of fundraising for multiple universities and colleges. After retirement she continued working as a substitute teacher until 2018.

Joan was happiest when spending time and traveling with her family and close friends. Some of her favorite trips and activities included hiking in the Cuyahoga Valley, time at the beach, adventures to Spain, cruises with her sister, and camping with friends and family. She loved cooking, beading, knitting, and supporting her grandchildren in all of their activities. She always put family first. Joan’s spontaneous, fun loving, and adventurous spirit always kept people guessing as to what she’d be up to next. Her generosity, kindness, thoughtfulness, and sharp intellect will be greatly missed.

Joan is survived by her daughter Christie (Michael) Blackmon, son Ross (Kim) Whitehill,  four grandchildren: Quentin Whitehill, Dylan Whitehill, Leyla Whitehill, and Marissa Blackmon; sister Pat Spisak, and nephew Ryan Spisak.

An outdoor Celebration of Life with friends and family is being planned for the spring/summer of 2021. Information will be shared as plans are made.

Memorial Contributions in Joan’s name may be made to:

Hope West Hospice of Grand Junction, Colorado

https://www.hopewestco.org/donate/

Please visit www.brownscremationservice.com to leave condolences and share memories with Joan’s family.