Joan M. Crotty

Joan M. Crotty, age, 68, late of Joliet, died Monday, February 7, 2011 at Provena St. Joseph Medical Center.

She is survived by her husband of 44 years Frank J. ""Boomer"" Crotty, one daughter Joni Marie (Aaron LaVere) Crotty and her beloved therapy dog, Fitzwilliam James. Joan is also survived by her sister Dorothy (late Norman) Overbey and brother Thomas Jefferson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Doris Jefferson.

Joan was born and raised in Chicago and was a graduate of SIU ""A�?? Carbondale. She taught First and Second grade for 37 years at Milne Grove School in Lockport, where she will be remembered for her annual ""theme animals"". In life, Joan was devoted to her family and took great joy in traveling, reading and listening to country music. In her later years she raised Fitzwilliam, her West Highland terrier, to be a therapy dog. She generously shared time with Fitzwilliam by making visits at local hospitals, nursing homes, and the Joliet Public Library. She was a lifelong educator and nurturer.

She was a member of AAUW, Illinois and Will County Reading Councils, and Therapy Dog International. Joan had faith in God and hope in life. Her favorite bible passage was the sixth chapter of Matthew.

For those wishing to leave a lasting tribute in Joan"s name, memorial contributions to Hope UMC Discretionary Fund would be appreciated.

A Celebration of Joan"s Life will be held at Hope United Methodist Church, 2506 Caton Farm Road, Joliet on Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 10 AM. Family will receive friends at the church from 9:00 AM until the service. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Joliet. Visitation will be on Friday from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM.