JoAnn P. Ring

JoAnn P. Ring, age 83, of Shawnee, Oklahoma, passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025, while surrounded by her beloved family at her home in Shawnee.

JoAnn was born on January 24, 1942, in Wolf, Oklahoma, the daughter of Joe and Leva (Burgess) Pierce. She was raised in the Seminole, Wolf, and Bowlegs area, graduating from Pleasant Grove High School in 1960. After high school, JoAnn became a loving mother of four children. She supported her family for over 20 years as the Medical Records Director for Colonial Estates Nursing Home in Shawnee.

When she wasn’t working, JoAnn was known to enjoy her favorite shows, including old westerns, The Golden Girls, Blue Bloods, and especially Dr. Phil. Additionally, she loved traveling—trips to Graceland, Wyoming, and Florida beaches were among her favorites. Above all else, JoAnn loved Jesus Christ and would quickly tell people He was her “best friend.” Her faith was strong, and she feared God. JoAnn spent much time studying her Bible and, when able, served as an active member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a founding member.

Right behind Jesus was her passionate love for her cherished family. The time she spent with them was precious and most often accompanied by a Dr. Pepper or three and some Werther’s Originals. As the matriarch of her family, she was devoted to them—giving much of her time, bringing humor to keep things light, and being strong-willed to make sure her perspectives were known. She will be missed tremendously by her family.

Survivors include her cherished children: Hershel Ring and wife Terri of Shawnee, Todd Ring and wife Chrystal of Bethel Acres, Travis Ring and wife Alaina of Shawnee, and Angel O’Brien and husband Shane of Meeker;

Grandchildren: Sara Brewer and husband Dylan of Jones, Oklahoma; Tessa Newton and husband Jeffery of Dallas, TX; Andrew Ring of Bethel Acres; Travis Ring, Jr. of Edmond; Courtney Ring and partner Justin Plumlee of Shawnee; Kaitlyn Ring and partner Chase Puckett of Shawnee; Stephanie Sutton of Midwest City; Brianna Phillips and husband Andrew of Shawnee; and Brooklynn Hulstine and husband Justin of Meeker;

Great-grandchildren: Emmett Brewer, Hudson Brewer, Cooper Plumlee, Mason Puckett, Brayton Schwertner, Ryker Hunn, Braelyn Phillips, Brynlee Phillips, and Brixton Phillips;

As well as numerous other nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Storm O’Brien; sisters: Opal Onieta Pierce, Ruthie Pierce, Betty Jean Pierce, Zete May Pierce, Argie Parsons, Margie Stidman, and Louise Vible; and brothers: Leslie Pierce, Billy Joe Pierce, J.W. Pierce, and Guy “Salty” Pierce.

The family would also like to express special thanks to her friends and caregivers—Angela Hagar, Rachel Crider, Malisa Daniel, Katina Smith, and Hannah Welch—for loving and caring for her so honorably.

Friends and loved ones may pay their respects from 8:00 AM–6:00 PM on Thursday, May 1, 2025, with the family present from 4:00–6:00 PM at Walker Funeral & Cremation Service. A funeral ceremony to celebrate her life will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 1005 Kimberly Road, Tecumseh, Oklahoma, with Pastor Mack Peercy officiating. Following the ceremony, JoAnn will be laid to rest near her grandson at Calvary Cemetery in Shawnee.