Obituary – Joan Santee

Joan Santee passed away July 28, 2026, at Licking Residential Care; which she called home for the past four years.

Joanie, as most everyone knew her, was born Joan Sharlene Henderson on February 2, 1946, in Tacoma, Washington, to Wesley LaVern “Vern” Henderson and Marie Idell Merth. Joanie grew up in Pendleton, Oregon, and married her high school sweetheart, Willard Lee Linsy Santee on January 2, 1965. They celebrated 50 years of happiness together, raising three sons, Kevin LaVern, Kelly Ray, and Kenny Dean, who survive Joanie along with her brother Gary Henderson, sister Karen Henderson Andrews, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Joanie’s lifelong sweetheart, Willard, preceded her in death, as well as her parents Vern and Marie, her half-sister Melissa Henderson, and her longtime stepfather James Lee Martin.

Joanie and Willard and their three sons moved frequently during Willard’s ministry as a Seventh-day Adventist pastor. Through all the moves and the various congregations, Joanie tirelessly cared for and nurtured her family and was continually involved in children’s ministries and community outreach. Joanie was always ready to lend her hands and heart in service and lift her voice in songs and hymns. She was ever grateful and sent thank you cards for everything and for any reason. She nurtured, supported, and cared for anyone in need, always making room in their modest budget for gifts, and giving whatever she had whenever she saw someone in need.

Joanie’s ashes will be interred next to her soulmate, Willard, at a private cemetery near Deer Park, Washington, at a future date, along with a Celebration of Life. Memorial contributions or donations can be made to Licking Residential Care. Online condolences may be left at www.foxfh.net. Arrangements are entrusted to Fox Funeral Home.