There are condolences waiting approval on JoAnn's Tribute wall
Celebrating the life of JoAnn Swekosky Dreiling
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
JoAnn.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for JoAnn Swekosky Dreiling
JoAnn Swekosky Dreiling, age 74, passed away on April 24, 2016 at her home in Madison surrounded by her loving family. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, JoAnn was raised in St. Louis, Missouri, where she graduated from the St. Louis City Hospital School of Nursing. It was there she met her husband, Dr. Bernard Joseph Dreiling. In 1969, they made their home in Jackson following a three-year tour of duty at Chelsea Naval Hospital in Boston.
JoAnn loved to travel and was always up for an adventure. She was very active in her community and her church, and often said she was “going about my Father's business” as she touched the lives of many in need. This was readily apparent during her many years as a nurse at UMC Children’s Rehabilitation Center. JoAnn was a dedicated friend and caring mother who loved her husband, children, grandchildren, family and friends with all her heart, just as they all loved her. Lifelong friendships were made in the St. Michael's Church Circle, the Pinola Playmates, the Aqua Bubbles Water Aerobics, the Natchez Trace Village Bunko and the Red Hat Ladies groups. She also led the “Soldiers of the Lord,” a group of friends of her grandson, Jeffrey Andrew Rucker, Jr. Her influence on these individuals, who are now in their early twenties, will last their lifetime and “Nandy Stories” and “Nandy’s Rules” will surely be passed on to their children. JoAnn served as a Eucharistic Minister and was a member of the M&M Bible Study group at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Dr. Bernard Joseph Dreiling, her two daughters, Karen Dreiling Barnes (Greg) of Madison and Elizabeth Dreiling Hontzas (Tim) of Birmingham, Alabama, and her two grandchildren, Jeffrey Andrew Rucker, Jr. and Athena Grace Hontzas. She is also survived by her brother, Frank Swekosky (Janet) of The Villages, Florida, as well as many nieces and nephews.
JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Francis Joseph Swekosky and Eone DeShazo Swekosky.
The family would like to thank all of the caring physicians who treated JoAnn throughout her illness. A special thanks goes to Hospice Ministries and Assisting Angels for the wonderful care they provided during her final months.
.jpg)