JoAnne Marie (Fazio) McDonough

JoAnne Marie McDonough passed away on the morning of May 16th, 2021 while in hospice for advanced stage cancer.  She was and always has been a fighter, and one of her last statements was, “I’m okay.”  She is survived by her daughters, Kristen Brophy and Shannon Marschall; her son-in-laws Alan Brophy and Matthew Marschall; her grandsons Kyler Brophy and Brett Marschall; and her granddaughters Elizabeth (Bethy) and Clara Marschall.  Many loving family members also survive her, including her sister, Roseanne, brother James, and brother Joseph.  She was predeceased by her parents, Frank and Bertha Fazio, as well as her sister, Lynn. 

JoAnne was the embodiment of a fierce, strong woman.  She was born in Detroit and grew up in Warren, MI.  As the oldest of 5 children, JoAnne learned early on the compassionate skills of a caregiver.  She also learned how to deal with life’s difficulties head-on, and there was never a challenge that she shirked.  She was passionately devoted to those whom she loved, and her loyalty was absolute.  JoAnne spent almost all of her adult life in Clinton Township where she raised her 2 daughters.  An avid animal lover, she fulfilled a lifelong dream when she met and found her perfect friend:  her horse, Downtown Rascal (D.T.).  She spent many happy hours with him at the stable, and there was nothing she enjoyed more than going for a gallop and listening to him whinny when she called his name.  They were inseparable until his death in 2004.   She also had many dogs over the years, and she was particularly fond of cocker spaniels.  As an adult, her dogs included Spanky, Trevor, Maverick, Piper, Monty, and Tucker.  JoAnne is happy and at peace now, surrounded by her much-loved animal friends. 

JoAnne was a medical assistant for Comprehensive Women’s Care in Clinton Township for 28 years.  She made so many friends over her career.  What is more, she corralled 2 headstrong, teenage daughters while being a working, single parent.  She always put others first and never wanted anyone to worry about her.  She had a strong personality and sharp wit, but those who knew her best also knew this concealed a sensitive heart.  She was a talented artist, she loved to crochet and knit, and she was so very proud of her grandchildren. 

Dear Mama, we love you more than words can express.  We miss you more than we can convey. We are forever grateful for the love you gave, which shaped us into our own versions of fierce, strong women.  Mama, we’re glad you’re home. 

A small, private ceremony will be held with family members at her graveside in Mt. Olivet, Fowlerville, Mi.  A memorial celebrating her life will be held on May 27th from 5:00-8:00 pm at Fern Hill Country Club, 17600 Clinton River Rd, Clinton Twp, MI, 48038.  Dinner will be provided.  Please consider wearing bright colors!  JoAnne loved cheerful colors.  Flowers can be sent to Fern Hill.  In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in JoAnne’s name to the Michigan Human Society or the American Cancer Society.  Thank you all for sharing JoAnne’s wonderful life!

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