JoAnn Stowers Midkiff, 90, of Yawkey, West Virginia, passed peacefully on October 17, 2025, after a long and faith-filled life. Born October 8, 1935, in Alkol, West Virginia, she was the daughter of Warren and Ella Meadows.
A graduate of Morris Harvey College (now the University of Charleston), JoAnn dedicated her life to teaching and mentoring young students, retiring from Midway Elementary School after many years of service. Known to generations of children as “Mrs. Stowers,” she was admired for her kindness, patience, and devotion to helping others learn and grow.
JoAnn was married to her first husband, Jimmy Stowers, for 35 years until his passing. Years later, she found love again and shared more than 30 wonderful years with her second husband, Albert Midkiff. Together, they built a beautiful life surrounded by family, faith, and friends. She and Al loved to travel and often went camping together, with JoAnn happily riding on the back of his motorcycle during their road trips and adventures.
JoAnn was the youngest of eight children, all of whom preceded her in death: Ralph, Ray, Buford, Ellis, Russell, Gene, and Nanny Opal. She was also preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Jimmy Stowers; her second husband, Albert Midkiff; her daughter, Danita Allen; and her stepdaughter, Jane Ann Curry.
She is survived by her stepchildren Mark (Gail) Midkiff and Bronda (Rick) Adkins. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, including Joella Allen and Patrick (Josalyn) Allen, and numerous great-grandchildren who brought her great joy. She is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, including her beloved nephew, Fred Meadows. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
During her final days, JoAnn was lovingly cared for by the compassionate staff of Arthur B. Hodges and Kanawha Hospice Care, with additional support from the dedicated social work team. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the comfort and dignity they provided.
A service to celebrate her life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home in Alum Creek, West Virginia. Family will receive guests beginning at 11:00 a.m., and burial will follow at Orchard Hills Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Arthur B. Hodges or the Griffithsville Church of Christ.
Just seeing Aunt JoAnn’s obituary in the paper of a friend. My heart is saddened by her passing but I know we will meet again. She was always smiling and teasing us at family reunions! Went to church with her as a young child once – that I’ve never forgotten. We were raised in a different church in St Albans. My thoughts and prayers go out to Patrick and Joella and their families.
I’m so sorry to hear about Maw she was literally one of the very best!! I will cherish many memories of her in my heart.
Mrs. Stowers taught a lot of Midway Mustangs over the years. After retirement I would see her frequently living her life to the fullest. Condolences to her grandchildren & family.