Joanna Leavenworth

An expanded story about Joanna's life is being prepared. Please visit again to read more...

Joanna Jane (Pierce) Leavenworth was born July 25, 1927, in Blooming Valley, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Cynthia Eliza (Roudebush) Pierce and William Issac Pierce. Joanna attended Baptist Bible Seminary in Johnson City, New York, transferring to Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois majoring in History. While at Wheaton, she met Benn Leavenworth, where they soon set their hearts on a future together. In June of 1951, Joanna and Benn exchanged vows, beginning a remarkable 67-year journey of love and adventure.

Together, they made their home in Michigan, where Joanna embraced her role as a devoted mother and homemaker. She was a gifted teacher and lifelong learner, admired for her culinary talents, canning skills, and deep love for children. With a positive outlook and a creative spirit, she found joy and contentment in every circumstance. Joanna lived selflessly, serving others with grace and generosity. Her kind and gentle spirit uplifted everyone she met.

In their retirement years, she and Benn gave generously of their time, volunteering in their community and local church, and traveling the world together. Even in her final years, Joanna continued to bring comfort and encouragement to those in need, offering a warm smile or a thoughtful word. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, hope, and love—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her devoted husband, Benn; beloved son, Maj. (US Army Ret.) Benjamin K. Leavenworth III; her brother, Harry Pierce; and sister, Thora Schweitzer.

She is lovingly remembered by her sisters-in-law—Eunice, Mary, and Perky; her four treasured children: Maj. (USAR Ret.) William P. (Vita) Leavenworth Sr., Rebecca (Jay) Duff, Melody (Dominic) Scorziello, and Renee Benjamin; nine cherished grandchildren: Melody Ann, Billie, Ashly, Marissa, Jayson, Abigail, Joanna, Elizabeth, and Cassie; and thirteen adored great-grandchildren: Layla, Benjamin, Eden, Leo, James, Arthur, Michael, Joseph, Ethan, Bella, Elias, Theo, and Otto.

A celebration of Joanna’s life will be held at Calvary Church, 707 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids, on February 13, 2026. Visitation 10-11am, Memorial Service 11-12, immediately followed by a luncheon at the church.

Interment was privately held at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Calvary Church for the Refugee Ministry 707 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids. We invite you to visit Joanna’s memory page to share a story or sign the guestbook.