Joanna Renee Brissette, age 68, of Gibsonia, PA, formerly of Valparaiso, IN, died peacefully on July 9, 2026 after an eight-year battle with Alzheimer's disease. She was born on March 13, 1958 in Valparaiso, IN, the daughter of the late John Russell Bryant and Phyllis Borth Bryant. Beloved wife for 39 years of Kevin Brissette. Loving mother of Stephanie Brissette, Monique Stukey (Adam), and Andrew Brissette. Sister of Andrea Buckley (Glen) and the late Rick Bryant and Robert Bryant. Dear grandmother of Tessa and Amelia Stukey.
When she was in high school, Joanna was active with the drama club, where she played Max the Dog in The Grinch that Stole Christmas and General Matilda Cartwright in Guys and Dolls. Joanna graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1976. Following High School graduation, Joanna earned a University of North Carolina Dental Assistant Certification. With this, she worked as a Dental Assistant for Dr. William Shideler for 14 years. After her first daughter, Stephanie, was born, she went on to be a wonderful full-time mom at home with her children. She was a terrific cook, a natural comedian who always brought a smile to your face, and enjoyed creating historic miniature houses. She loved the Chicago Cubs and her first date with Kevin was a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. Joanna was known for her famous chocolate chip cookies, which was one of the many things Kevin fell in love with.
Family and friends are welcome at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd, Valparaiso, IN 46383, on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 10am to 12pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.
GUESTBOOK
So very sad to see this - in our early years we spent many fun nights together at First Presbyterian Church Choir and other church events - Joanna has always had such a winning smile and loved to laugh - Heaven just became an even better place to go knowing she is there. -Shelley Broviak Dennis
Dear Family, I am sending you my sincere sympathy. I first remember Joanna at our downtown FPC where she was helping with our Sunday School. When I think of her I will always see her with a smile and sharing a happy spirit for life. She was so devoted to her family and I am sure you felt that in her giving spirit through the years. Please know there are many in Valparaiso who care about your family and our loss of Joanna. -Sharon K. Harris
Kevin and family, I am so sorry for the passing of Joanna. I worked with Joanna at Dr. Shideler’s for many years. She always had a smile on her face and full of energy. It was a pleasure having worked with her. She was a wonderful mother and wife. May she rest in peace! -Lois Carver
I’m so sorry for your loss. Joanna was so happy and enthusiastic about everything she did. I have fond memories of the Bryant family (her parents and family) at First Presbyterian Church, Valpo. Also our shared interest in miniatures and doll houses. -Donna Parker
Dear Stephanie, Monique, Andrew and Kevin, We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Joanna. We both remember her fondly as being such a caring, fun loving person who was always there for her family and friends. She was such a strong example of being a dedicated mom to her three beloved children. You all made her so very proud! We feel so fortunate to have gotten to know your whole family through the years. May your wonderful memories sustain you as you grieve your loss. Please take good care of each other. -Rick and Darlene Lawson
