STILLMAN VALLEY – Joann W. Hayton, age 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 28, 2022 at her daughter’s home, in the tender loving care of her six children, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. She was born Feb. 29, 1936, a leap year baby, in Cowles, Neb., the daughter of Ed and Meta (Schiermeyer) Blobaum.
They moved to Paynes Point when Joann was 3 years old. She attended Paynes Point grade school and Stillman Valley High School where she was on the May Queen court and graduated in 1953 as class valedictorian. In June of 1954 she married Jack Hayton, her high school sweetheart. They raised 6 children who were the love of her life (until grandchildren!) Joann learned a strong work ethic from her parents, putting it to good use waitressing throughout her life. She cherished the connections and friendships developed in the community through Avon and Tupperware sales, Welcome Wagon and catering Lions Club dinners. Joann spent as much time as she could in her numerous flower gardens, enjoyed square dancing, baseball and was a loyal Cubs fan.
Joann gave many hours to Paynes Point Lutheran Church as pianist, organist and choir director. She later attended First Assembly of Rockford and sang in the choir for many years. She had a deep faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ which sustained her throughout many difficult times in life. Joann left a legacy of prayer and faith passing it down to her children and grandchildren.
She was predeceased in death by her parents, husband Jack of 33 years, brother Darrell Blobaum and second husband Lyle Harms.
She is survived by her husband Bob Sund, children Greg (Hazel) Hayton of Osceola, Wis., Frank (Terry) Hayton of Cumberland, Wis., Jody (Ken) Pineschi of Rockford, Gail (Brian) Johnson of Rockford, Lynn (Jerry) Gorsegner of Stillman Valley, and Dawn (Jeff) Whaley of Stillman Valley; 29 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren (#32 on the way); sister, Dolores (Stan) Brooks of Stillman Valley; many nieces, nephews, and a special nephew, Greg Creek, whom she helped raise.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, March 7, 2022 at Kishwaukee Community Evangelical Presbyterian Church near Stillman Valley with Pastor Matt Hayton officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service at the church from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.. Burial will be at Emmanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Paynes Point. A memorial fund is established in Joann’s name and may be directed to her family. Visit www.farrellhollandgale.com to leave a condolence or memory.
