Joanne C. Ackerman
Joanne C. Ackerman, 78, of South Williamsport, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025 at the Gatehouse of Divine Providence Hospital. Surviving is her husband, Charles L. Ackerman.
Born March 26, 1946 in Williamsport, she was a daughter of the late John B. and Doris (Miller) Otto. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, John C. Otto.
Joanne graduated from the Williamsport Area High School in 1964 and soon after completed her secretarial program at the Williamsport School of Commerce. Her commitment to lifelong learning led her to pursue various computer training programs, which served her well in her professional life. Joanne dedicated many years of service as a secretary and treasurer at the South Williamsport Borough office and later retired from Lycoming County, where she worked diligently as a secretary and clerk for two different justices.
Her work was an extension of her commitment to her community, but Joanne’s true passion lay in her faith and family. A faithful Christian, she was a devoted member of the Wings of Love Community Church. Joanne’s love for her husband, Charles L. Ackerman, was unwavering throughout their 58 years of marriage. Together, they raised their daughter, Cheryl L. Schonewolf (Richard), of Williamsport, and delighted in the joys of grandparenthood with their grandchildren, Tyler and Courtney Schonewolf.
Joanne adored all animals and could often be found engaging in heartfelt conversations with friends and strangers alike. Her sense of humor was marked by a touch of sarcasm, and her intelligence shone through in her love for word searches and Sudoku puzzles. Joanne was hardworking and honest, qualities that earned her the respect and admiration of those around her. Her love for travel and adventure took her to places like Disney World in Florida and Wildwood, NJ, but it was the simple pleasures in life, like taking car rides and being a loving ‘MeMe,’ that brought her the most joy.
A funeral service to honor the life of Joanne will be held 11 a.m. Monday, January 20 at Wings of Love Community Church 699 Southmont Ave, South Williamsport. Burial will follow in Green Lawn Memorial Park, Montgomery. A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service at Wings of Love Community Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joanne’s name to the Wings of Love Community Church 699 Southmont Ave, South Williamsport, PA 17702 or to the Lycoming County SPCA 2805 Reach Road Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Susquehanna Health Foundation c/o the Gatehouse 1001 Grampian Blvd. Williamsport, PA 17701.
Arrangements entrusted to Knight-Confer Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be expressed on Joanne’s memorial page at www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.