It is with deep sadness that we announce JoAnne’s unexpected death on March 20th, 2024.

She was born in Centre, Pennsylvania, on September 7, 1948. She was the first child and only daughter of Margaret Bradford, maiden name Zambelli, and George Woodrow Bradford. She was the beloved mother of Bradford Frederick Ireland, her only child, Grandmother to his children Madeline Grace Ireland and Daniel Frederick Ireland, sister to George William Bradford, and partner to Edwin Jenkins. Each one of her family was the object of love and pride for JoAnne and she was interested in and cared about everything going on in their lives. JoAnne never met a stranger and had made many friends throughout her life. In addition to her parents, JoAnne was preceded in death by her youngest brother Brian Bradford.

A graduate of Sykesville High School, she continued her education at Eastern Kentucky University, receiving a Bachelor's degree in music education. While teaching, she further continued her studies, receiving her masters in school administration at Western Maryland College, now McDaniel College. JoAnne’s continuing passion throughout life was music. She was a K-5 music teacher for more than 40 years for Frederick County Public Schools. While she never wanted to leave the classroom, after retirement, she moved to Hagerstown and became an integral member within her community volunteering her time as a member and interim president of the Hagerstown Lioness club. She continued to be present in music and education, often volunteering aid to her grandchildren's preschool and elementary classes. JoAnne was always a gracious host, always hosting some sort of get-together for her friends and family. She greatly enjoyed baking, cooking, and of course, music. She also loved spending much of her time in Stuart, Florida where her parents moved to in their retirement. She continued to spread her community values and kindness there until her untimely death.

While JoAnne never wished for a funeral, a Celebration Of Life will be planned in her honor. This service has not been finalized yet but will be announced through social media. 

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