Mary Joanne “Joanne” Hill, 78, of Long Beach, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025. Her passing holds special poignancy as it occurred on the birthday of her beloved husband, Barney, who preceded her in death less than two years ago.
Born on April 17, 1947, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Joanne was the daughter of Bill and Hazel Strohauer. She was raised in a loving Christian home where she developed a deep faith that remained central throughout her life. Guided always by kindness, generosity, and compassion, she touched the lives of many with her quiet strength and warm spirit.
Joanne built a successful career in real estate and later became an entrepreneur, owning and operating her own vacation rental company until her retirement.
Outside of work, Joanne embraced life with a spirit of adventure and joy. She loved to travel and especially cherished girls’ getaway trips with her only daughter, Pam. Always ready to “go,” she brought enthusiasm and light to every journey. Whether spending peaceful afternoons on the boat with Barney and family or hosting meals at home for loved ones, Joanne created lasting memories through simple moments filled with love and laughter.
Her home reflected her care, creativity, and pride. She loved maintaining a beautiful yard and found fulfillment in tending to it herself. Entertaining family brought her immense happiness; she delighted in gathering those she loved around a table filled with good food and conversation.
Joanne’s generous heart and gentle nature were evident to all who knew her. Described by many as beautiful inside and out, she was known for putting others before herself and for living with a spirit that inspired warmth, adventure, and grace.
She is survived by her devoted daughter, Pam Belk, and son-in-law, Tony Belk; Henry “Bud” Jones, the father of their daughter, with whom she shared many meaningful years; her grandsons, Dwayne and Eric Belk; her sister, Jackie Ball, and brother-in-law, Pete Ball; and her nephews, Michael and David Ball, along with their families, all of whom held a cherished place in Joanne’s heart.
Joanne was preceded in death by her loving husband, Barney; her parents, Bill and Hazel Strohauer; and her grandnephew, Jonathan Aeschliman.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to Brenda Chapman and her devoted team at Senior Oaks Assisted Living in Long Beach. In Joanne’s final season of life, they cared for her with the delicate love of a family. Their compassion, tenderness, and steadfast attention brought comfort, dignity, and peace to Joanne and to those who loved her. The family will forever remain grateful for their presence in her life.
Joanne’s unwavering faith and her years as a member of First Baptist Church of Long Beach assure her family and friends that she is now rejoicing in heaven, reunited with those who went before her. Her memory will continue to offer comfort and inspiration to all who were blessed to know her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites memorial gifts to be made to Southern Oaks in Joanne’s honor, in appreciation for the profound care she received.
May Mary Joanne Hill’s legacy of grace, strength, kindness, and adventure live on in the hearts of those she touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 19130 Commission Road, Long Beach, Mississippi on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, beginning at 10:00 am.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.riemannfamily.com
Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is honored to be assisting the family.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Joanne Hill, please visit our flower store.Riemann Family Funeral Home - Long Beach
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