Joanna Jean Harvey, 81, died on Thursday, Feb. 2.
Ms. Harvey was a long time resident of Oakdale. She was born in Livermore to Catherine and John Harvey. She was raised in Oakland and graduated from Castlemont High School.
She visited relatives in Denmark numerous times and there met her first husband, Svend Pedersen. They settled in Willits, Calif. to raise their family. In 1964, the family lived in Denmark for one year and after returning to the United States, they moved to Oakdale.
At age 52, she suffered a debilitating car accident and defying all odds, continued to live a life of independence. She brought her love of music, travel, animals, reading, gardening, cooking, and homemaking to her family, thus enriching all their lives. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
The family thanks her caregivers for their support and friendship, making it possible for her to have the quality of life she cherished by remaining in her home for nearly three decades.
She is survived by her children, Karen Pedersen, Jonette (Ron) Ryan, Jon Pedersen; former husband, Lynn Woodward; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
A private celebration of her life will be held in the near future.
Remembrances may be made in her memory to the charity of your choice.