Joan Schmidel Bixby passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 16, 2026, at the age of 92.

Joan was born on April 12, 1934, in Savanna, Illinois, where she spent her formative years and graduated high school. Her pursuit of higher education led her to Northern Illinois University where she earned her Bachelor Degree in Education.

Through a serendipitous introduction from a friend, Joan met the love of her life, Don. They were married on December 14, 1957, embarking on a devoted partnership that spanned over 67 years. Their journey together began in Galesburg, Illinois, with life then taking Joan and her family to Morris, Illinois, where she and Don raised their two daughters, Susan and Kathryn.

Joan began her career as a grade school teacher at Nettle Creek School in Morris, a role she truly cherished. She subsequently transitioned into what would become a long and fulfilling career in real estate with Century 21. Over the next 35 years, Joan built a successful career helping many Morris friends find their perfect home. Her ability to connect with anyone, paired with an unmatched work ethic, led to her being one of the most accomplished realtors in Grundy County during her career. Joan was named Grundy County Realtor of the Year and was a consistent recipient of the Century 21 Masters Club Award for outstanding performance. She represented the top three percent of Century 21 sales associates in the seven state area of Century 21 North Central, Inc. and received a Life Membership in the President’s Club for superior achievements in her region.

Joan’s dedication to her community extended to her many civic contributions. She was one of the driving forces behind the Morris Hospital Auxiliary Gala, serving as co-chair of the annual Hospital Ball for 16 years. Joan also co-chaired the annual Love Light Tree program benefiting the Morris Hospital Lifeline Program. Additionally, she was a board member of the Morris Women’s Club, a charter member of the Morris Theater Guild, and held numerous leadership positions on the local Board of Realtors.

Joan and Don enjoyed life in their beloved hometown of Morris and took pleasure participating in countless community activities. The family attended First Presbyterian Church in Morris, and Joan and Don were also longstanding members of Morris Country Club for over 50 years. On the course and in the clubhouse, Joan and Don shared many enjoyable “rounds” and formed lasting friendships. Joan treasured time with friends, and for 20 years she and Don embraced the winter months in Marco Island, Florida, enjoying the sunshine and coastal living alongside their close group of Morris “snowbird” friends.

Beyond her community involvement, Joan found great joy in playing bridge and expressing her refined sense of style through seasonal décor, especially during the Christmas holidays, when her home reflected her warmth and creativity. She will be forever remembered for her quick wit and charm as much as her warmth, kindness, and her big heart.

Joan's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her loving daughters, Susan (Larry) Chilton of LaGrange, Illinois and Kathryn (Kieran) Bixby-Browne of Chicago, Illinois; her treasured grandchildren, Megan (Chris) Farwell, Kathryn (Adrian) Chilton, and Ryan Chilton; and her adored great-granddaughter, Diana. She also leaves behind her devoted and dear friend, Jacque Vicini.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, George and Mabel Schmidel, and her beloved husband Don.

Services for Joan Bixby will be held privately by her family, and she will be laid to rest in Mount Carmel Cemetery in Morris alongside her husband Don. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Morris Hospital Foundation, 150 W. High Street, Morris, Illinois 60450 or to Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, Illinois 60431.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at Morris Healthcare, Morris Hospital, Plymouth Place LaGrange Park, and Lightways Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion. Joan’s memory will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guestbook, upload photographs and share Joan’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory, 121 Jefferson Street in Morris, Illinois (815-942-0700).