Joanne Louise Finnegan

Joanne Louise Sharp Finnegan, 88 of Gaylord, passed away Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Munson Grayling Hospital in Grayling.

Born on July 10, 1936, in Flint, she was the daughter of John and Bernice (Struble) Bloss. Joanne grew up in Flint, where she married William I. Sharp Jr. on October 16, 1951. They raised their family of five in Flint, Grand Blanc, Lake Fenton and suburban Detroit. After retirement, Joanne and Bill moved to Grayling and then Gaylord. Joanne has lived in Gaylord for the last 20 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in 2011, and later found love again with Paul Finnegan. Joanne and Paul spent several years dating before marrying on June 18, 2016. Sadly, he preceded her in death less than a year later, in 2017.

Through the years, Joanne had various part time jobs, but kept most busy as a wife, mom, and grandmother. She was also a busy volunteer in the communities in which she lived. 

She loved her many family members and friends, always enjoying time spent with them. She always kept in touch, never missing acknowledging birthdays and anniversaries. After she and Paul were married, her “Ohio” family became special to her as well.

Joanne and the family developed a love for the Manistee River, always looking forward to vacation time spent there. 

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was always active in her church. Gaylord Methodist Church has been her church home since she moved to Gaylord.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Bernice Bloss; her husbands, William Sharp Jr., and Paul Finnegan; a grandson, Asher Topham; sisters, Donna Davis, and Trudy Rector; and brothers, Allen Bloss and John L.D. Bloss. 

Surviving are her children, William (Stephen Smith) Sharp III of Frederic, Sue (Mark) Topham of Frederic, Allan (Donna) Sharp of Troy, Brad (Karen) Sharp of Traverse City, and Frederick Sharp of Gaylord; her former-son-in-law, Ron Rose of Frederic; step-children, William (Lazaro) Finnegan of Napoleon, OH, and Lisa (Harold) Andrews of Winter Haven, FL; five Sharp grandchildren and four Finnegan grandchildren; several cherished great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; many cousins with whom she grew up; and her many close friends. 

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Gaylord Methodist Church, where visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 AM.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions in her memory to Shriners Hospitals for Children at www.lovetotherescue.org. The Shriners greatly helped Joanne as young girl.

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