Joanna Lee Gross-Buscher-Scott-Drew-Carper, age 93, of Three Rivers, Michigan, passed away on September 9, 2026. She was born on August 9, 1933, in White Pigeon, Michigan, and lived a long life marked by devotion to family, kindness to others, and a generous spirit that touched many hearts.

Joanna was a loving, caring, compassionate, adventurous, and free-spirited woman whose presence brought warmth and comfort to those around her. She was deeply devoted to children, and they truly were her world. Her gentle nature and steady encouragement made a lasting impression on the lives of countless children, especially those she cared for through her work and foster parenting.

For more than 30 years, Joanna worked in the cafeteria at Centreville Schools, where she became a beloved part of the school community. Her kindness, patience, and welcoming smile were remembered by students and staff alike. To so many youngsters, she was not only a familiar and trusted face but also became a second Mom or Grandma. She had a special way of making people feel seen and cared for, and her years of service reflected the same selfless love that she carried into every part of her life. In addition to her work at the school, she had deep faith in God, and she served as a foster parent for over 20 years, opening her heart and home to children in need and providing them with stability, compassion, and love.

Joanna also enjoyed traveling, and she especially loved her trips to Florida and Arizona. These journeys brought her joy and reflected the adventurous spirit that remained with her throughout her life. Whether she was spending time with family, caring for children, or setting out on a new adventure, she embraced life with grace and enthusiasm.

She is survived by her children, Brenda (Edward) Iannarelli, Patricia (Jack) Romine, Steve (Anita) Buscher, and daughter-in-law, Peggy (Jamie) Blonde; stepchildren, Linda (Ed) Rentfro, Tom Carper and Gloria Stears; her grandchildren, Jeremy (Heather) Iannarelli, Jason (Jen) Iannarelli, Warren (Corky) Buscher, Lea (Matt) Lackey, Norman (Michelle) Romine, Chelsea (Matt) Musselman, Britney Buscher, and Sydney Herman; her great-grandchildren, Jacob, Hunter, Eva, and Elle Iannarelli, Kendall and Kaylynn Buscher, Jake German, Bradon Lackey, Nora, Brody, and Jasper Romine, and Harper, Knox, and Monroe Musselman; and her foster children, Jimmy, Ronnie, and Roger Jackson, Kim Steele, and Kathy Yost along with several nieces, nephews and extended relatives. Her family was a source of great pride and joy, and she cherished each of them deeply.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Warren J. Buscher in 1989, Samuel E. Scott in 1994, John Drew in 2007, and Sam Carper in 2020; her parents, Clifford and Winifred Gross; her son, Randy Warren Buscher her brothers, Robert and Duane Gross; her sister, Mary Lou Kline; niece, Tina Gross and nephew, Terry Kline.

Joanna’s life was one of service, devotion, and enduring love. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her unwavering care for children, and the many lives she touched through her work, her home, and her example. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life to remember Joanna will be held from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Covered Bridge Farm, 56705 Covered Bridge Rd., Three Rivers, MI 49093.

Joanna’s family welcomes messages and memories in their online guestbook at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.