With heavy hearts, we announce that Joan L. Willis (Sheran), age 84, was called home to the Lord July 7, 2026. Born on October 1, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, to Richard F. and Louise M. Sheran, Joan lived a life rooted in faith, family, resilience, and unconditional love.

As a devoted member of St. Paul of the Apostles Catholic Church, Joan made her faith the foundation of her life. It gave her strength, shaped the way she loved others, and carried her through both the joyful and difficult moments.

Joan found comfort in the simple things. She loved Little House on the Prairie and never missed an episode of General Hospital or Jeopardy!. She found peace on her porch overlooking the lake, whether watching her family enjoy a summer day or sitting quietly as a storm rolled in. She also cherished her trips to Oregon to visit her family, stories she loved to share.

Some of the family's favorite memories were made swimming in the lake, riding on her boat, affectionately named Don't Touch, or gathered around her table for spirited games of Left Right Center. Joan loved to laugh, and more than that, she loved hearing the laughter of the people around her. She had a generous heart, a contagious laugh, and a way of making ordinary days feel special simply by bringing her family together.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Richard F. and Louise M. Sheran; George Dubek; and her brother, Richard “Dick” Sheran.

She is lovingly remembered by her two children, Chuck Willis and Tracy (James Loar); her grandchildren, Zak (Ashley) Jolly, Mikey, Ellie, and Annie; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Wade, Zane, and Brynnlee, who lovingly knew her as “GG.” She is also survived by her brother, Tom Dubek; her sister-in-law, Angie Sheran; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Joan will be remembered for her steadfast faith, tenacity, generous spirit, and the unconditional love she gave so freely. Her family will forever cherish the traditions she created, the laughter she inspired, and the example she set of a life lived with grace, resilience, and love.

A memorial visitation and mass is scheduled for Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at St. Paul the Apostle Church 6401 Gages Lake Road Gurnee, IL 60031 from 9:00am until 10:00am with the mass commencing at 10:00am.  Interment will be private.  

All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23