Joanne D. Scott-Groom-Knopes

Joanne was born February 16, 1934, in Tekoa, Washington to Grant and Helen Smith Scott. She passed away February 11, 2024, just five days shy of her 90th birthday. She was the youngest of four girls.

She married George Groom in 1953 and they made their home in Tekoa, raising six children.

The marriage ended in divorce, and she later married Alan Knopes residing in the Colfax area. Alan passed away in 2000 and Joanne moved back to Tekoa area and then back to Colfax as a long-term resident of the care center in Colfax.

Over the years she provided domestic services to various Whitman County residents and enjoyed meeting new people. She was active in Rainbow girls during her teenage years. She was a member of the Christian Church in Tekoa and served as a childcare provider. A dear friend once commented that Joanne "never met a stranger" and that was so true.

In addition to her husband, Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Mildred Scott, Thelma Thompson, and Donna Fisher, daughter Connie Petit, and an infant grandson. She is survived by her children; Milton (Karen) Groom, of Colfax, Sandra Hess, Sally Ottoson, Duane (Debbie) Groom, of Tekoa, and Joan Groom, of Spokane; 19 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Whitman Health and Rehab Center (Cascadia) for all the love and support they've given to Joanne during her time there. They also would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, aids, and support personnel at Whitman Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion.

No services are planned at this time. Memorial gifts can be sent to Colfax Volunteer Fire Department, Tekoa Fire Department, or charity of donor's choice. Corbeill Funeral Home in Colfax is caring for the family. On-line condolences may be made at http://www.corbeillfuneralhomes.com