M. Joanie Woodruff

M. Joanie Woodruff, age 88, passed away on March 30, 2021, in Lambertville, Michigan. She was born on July 14, 1932 to the late Carl and Thelma (Richardson) Woodruff in Urbana, Ohio. Along with her parents, Joanie is preceded in death by her sister, Carol Szosz and brother-in-law, Merlin Szosz. She is survived by her nephews, Noah Szosz, his wife, Blakely and their daughters; Amelia, Charlotte, and Phoebe, and Matthew Szosz and his wife Anna Mlasowsky, niece, Eva Szosz, longtime friend, Pam LaPan, private duty nurse for 7 years, Debby Mingione, and her two dogs; Buffy and Smidge.

Joanie had an extensive education background. She attended Urbana Junior College in 1950-51, received her B.S. from Bowling Green State University in 1954, her A.M.L.S (Master of Arts in Library Science) from the University of Michigan in 1967, and completed some Post-Graduate studies at Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan. She taught at Mason Consolidated Schools (Erie, MI) from 1954-67. She was a 9th grade science and math teacher from 1954-55, a librarian- organizing and developing the elementary and junior high libraries from 1955-61, and organized the senior high school library from 1961-67. She was the assistant high school librarian from 1967-68 at Monroe Public Schools. From 1966-89, she was the reference and circulation librarian at Monroe County Community College. From 1968-89, she was the Director of Learning Resources. Joanie served as a member of the faculty bargaining team at Mason and as a member of the District’s bargaining team at the college. During her 35 years as an educator, she was an active member of numerous professional organizations and held offices at local, state, and national levels. She was active on committees involving the planning of new facilities and programs and applying for grants.

Joanie was also very involved in her community. She was part of the Monroe County Teachers Credit Union Board of Directors, St. Paul’s UMC Library Committee, Salvation Army Advisory Board, Monroe Corps. as the chairperson for 11 years, Monroe County O.E.O. Board, Monroe Business and Professional Women’s Club, The University of Michigan Women’s Club Scholarship Chairman, Michigan Chapter of the 99’s (International Organization of Women Pilots), Charter Member of the Greater Detroit Area Chapter of the 99’s, Monroe City-County Airport Board, Monroe City Custer Airport Advisory Commission, Monroe Senior Citizens Center, Monroe City Library Commission, Charter member of Monroe City Recycling Committee, and worked with the United Way in various capacities. Joanie was also a certified private pilot, receiving her ASEL (Airplane Single Engine Land). She created a non-profit corporation called “The Monroe Flyers, Inc.” which existed from 1969-86.

Joanie will be laid to rest at Oak Dale Cemetery in Urbana, Ohio next to her parents. Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.walterfunerals.com. Arrangements in the care of Walter and Lewis Funeral Home, Urbana, Ohio.