Joan Robertson Stapleton, affectionately known as Mama Jo, passed into Heaven on Friday, June 25, 2021, at the age of 88. Mrs. Stapleton was born in Montgomery, Alabama on January 15, 1933, the first of three daughters, to Dr. John Hayes and Doris Horne Robertson.
Mrs. Stapleton began her career as a surgical nurse in Augusta before moving to Douglas in the early 1950s, where she spent her time being a mother and homemaker. After rearing her three children she began a second career in retail clothing for women, first at Hybernia’s and later as a manager at Belk.
As a member of First Baptist Church, she faithfully attended Sunday School and worship services with her children. In later years she volunteered to prepare meals for families whose loved ones passed away.
Mrs. Stapleton was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Joyce Robertson Mobley. She leaves behind her three children, Charles and his wife Deborah, Jimmy and his wife Melissa, and Ellen Stapleton Pope and her husband Jerry. Her pride and joy were her six grandchildren, Keegan Stapleton and his wife Cindy, Christy Stapleton, Callie Stapleton Royer and her husband John, Ben Stapleton and his wife Jobeth, Austin Pope Lee and her husband Josh, and Haley Anna Pope. Her nine great grandchildren were deeply loved and adored by their “Mama Jo”. She also leaves behind her youngest sister Arie Darley, of Tallahassee, Florida, along with several nieces and nephews.
All who knew Joan Stapleton will agree that she possessed quick wit, true grit, and a strong will. That strong will carried her through on her journey to Heaven. With the help of the Lord, she died in her own way, with dignity, in her bed at home, surrounded by loved ones and caregivers.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 29 from 10:00 to 11:00 at Douglas First Baptist Church, followed by a memorial service at 11:00.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be made to Douglas First Baptist Church or Bethany Hospice in memory of Mrs. Joan Stapleton.