Joann McDuffie, 76, of Turlock, passed away at Brandel Manor. Joann was born in Arkansas to Garner and Lois. At the age of 12 she and her family relocated to Richmond, where her parents found work in the shipyards during World War II. Joann was married in 1959 to Rueal H. McDuffie, a native of Georgia and a Naval veteran of World War II. Rueal was discharged from the Navy at Treasure Island in San Francisco and together they moved to Fremont in 1962, where they settled and raised their three children. After the death of her husband, Joann moved to Aptos for 10 years, and then settled in Merced to be closer to her elderly parents.

Over the course of time, Joann worked in the Silicon Valley at the first Intel site as a QA. Later she went on to work as an AVON rep and at various other shops in the Merced area. Joann also worked as a professional seamstress and spent much of her time sewing everything from clothing to drapery.  She also deeply enjoyed helping her family and friends with interior design. Joann was very involved in the VFW for many years and served as the president of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary in the Fremont area.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary (Mike) Harckson; sons, Jack McDuffie and Ron McDuffie; brother, Doyce Sneed; sister, Susan Agers; and many grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rueal McDuffie; and parents.

Allen Mortuary is entrusted with the arrangements.  A private family service will be held at a later date. 

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