Joann was born in Savannah Georgia to parents Leonard and Kathleen Blalock. As the eldest of three, she was joined by her brother, Johnny and her sister Eileen.

After high school her grandmother offered her an opportunity to pursue higher education in nursing or primary education. She willingly accepted and graduated from Warren A Candler School of Nursing in 1957. Most of her nursing career was in the operating room where she devoted herself to helping others in need. She practiced nursing in many places, spending some time as a traveling nurse in New Mexico.

Her true passion was design, all aspects, floral, garden, and decorating her home.

She found great pleasure in the arts, she was in many plays at the Royal Theater and the Community Theater. She was a member of the San Juan Singers for many years, while also singing in the Presbyterian church choir. Joann also shared a passion for “all things gardening” as a member of the San Juan Island Garden Club.

At 50 years old, she chose sobriety and it changed her life forever. This is when she met Dick Lally, the love of her life. They married soon after and had many wonderful years together.

Joann found great pleasure in watching her three grandsons play sports. She was an all-weather fan for 22 years. A true commitment in the Pacific Northwest. 

Joann was preceded in death by her brother John. She is survived by sister, Eileen Oberzut of Hiawassee GA, son Chris Lawson (Sherry), grandsons, Chas (Zoie), Parker (Hannah), Gabe (Kendra) and 5 great grandchildren, Thatcher, Penrose, Perlette, Emily, and Mary, of Friday Harbor.

Please join us for a celebration of Joann’s life, January 25, 2025, 1:00 at the Mullis Community Senior Center. Tea and cookies will be served…her favorite.