Bristow - JoAnn Howard Bird, 73, retired Bristow Public Schools kindergarten teacher, died Aug. 20. Service 1 p.m. Saturday, First United Metho-dist Church, and graveside service 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Magnolia Memorial Gardens. Hutchins-Maples. (Tulsa World)
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Retired teacher, JoAnn Bird, was born November 22, 1937 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Neal and Helen (Fawcett) Howard. She passed away on Saturday, August 20, 2011 in Bristow, Oklahoma at the age of 73 years. JoAnn graduated from Del City High School in 1956 and went on to achieve her bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University and her Master's degree from East Central University. JoAnn taught for many years as a kindergarten teacher for Bristow Public Schools. On March 15, 1980, JoAnn married the late Cleburn Bird in Bristow, Oklahoma. She was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority (Gamma Nu Chapter), where she received the Master's Degree, the sorority's highest and last degree. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Bristow where she participated in the choir for many years. JoAnn enjoyed traveling, especially with the Gallivantin' Grannies, with many destinations based on family and food interests. She devoted much of her time to helping others, but her life was centered around her grandkids. During her eleven-year journey with breast cancer, JoAnn inspired others with her caring and courageous spirit. Always the teacher, her actions taught those around her that a positive attitude can be the best medicine. She continued to enjoy life for many years as she defied doctor's predictions and exceeded expectations. JoAnn is survived by three sons and two daughters: David Free and his wife, Tara of Tulsa; Eric Free and his wife, Laura of Allen, Texas; Kevin Bird and his wife, Rita of Bristow; Lori McNabb and her husband, Jim of Bristow and Rhonda McGrath and her husband, Ron of Tyler, Texas; fifteen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. A brief graveside service will be held at 10:30 am, Saturday, August 27, 2011 in Magnolia Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of her life will be at 1pm at the First United Methodist Church with Reverend Kip Wright officiating.