Joann "Joanie/JoJo" Dassance

Joann “Joanie/JoJo" Dassance

April 9th, 1945 – April 9th, 2026

Joann “Joanie/JoJo” Dassance, 81, passed away April 9, 2026 in Cortland, NY, the same city where she was born. Her life was a testament to her love for family, community involvement and passion for sports and games.

Joanie was predeceased by her parents, Stephen and Betty Dassance; her brother, Stephen Dassance, Jr.; her brother, William Dassance; and her sisters, Stephania Harper, Ethel Jean Dassance Brown, and Leola Dassance Gunn. 

She is survived by a loving family that includes her niece, Terri Miner; nephew, Stephen Smith; nephew, Chad Smith and his wife Kim, along with their children Brittany, Lexie and William; niece, Carol Rodriquez and her husband Richie (her pitch partner), and their children Anthony and Brayden; niece, Kathi Robbie and her children, Emily and Justin; niece, Ryanne Smith; sister-in-law, Helen Dassance; brother-in-law, James Harper; nephew, John Brown; as well as many other nieces and nephews. 

Joanie had a lifelong love of sports and games.  She loved cheering on her Yankees and Giants.  In her younger years, she was an active member of several bowling teams and softball teams.  Her enthusiasm for these activities extended beyond participation: she also coached youth bowlers at the Smith Corona Club and mentored several little league teams.  Joanie’s competitive spirit was evident in her love of playing pitch, a game she enjoyed throughout her life. 

Her dedication to community service was evident through her involvement as an auxiliary member of Carrington Fuller Post 800 American Legion.  She also contributed to the Groton Alumni Association. Above all else, Joanie treasured time spent with her family.  Whether cheering on loved ones or sharing laughter over a game of cards, she created countless memories that will be cherished by those who knew her. 

Terri expresses that "I would like to thank the many nurses and aides at Guthrie Hospital and nursing home who took such good care of Joanie.  I would also like to thank the many people who helped to keep me sane through this long journey, especially Carol Rodriquez, Robin Eberhardt and Karina Ross."

A celebration of life will be held at a later time.  Private interment will be in Groton Rural Cemetery.  

Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, are thoughtfully recommended to the East Coast Pet Adoption Agency (https://eastcoastadoptions.com ), or to an animal rescue organization of choice.  Arrangements are entrusted to the Shurtleff Funeral Home, and online condolences may be shared with Joanie's family at www.shurtleffservices.com .