Joan Marie Justus

Joan Marie Justus, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on Monday, August 17th, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on September 7th, 1943, in St. Joseph, Missouri to Frank "Bud" and Wilma "Peggy" Horsman.

Joan was a dedicated and passionate individual who spent many years working as a caterer and cook at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri. Her love for nurturing and teaching extended beyond her professional life, as she also devoted 20 years to being a headstart teacher, impacting the lives of countless children.

Joan's life was a testament to her love for family and community. She was a devoted mother to her children, Harry Justus Jr. of Maitland, MO, Randy (Darla) Justus of Maryville, MO, Dixie Lynette Justus of Maryville, MO, and Michell "Mickey" (Brad) Marie Ashley of Maitland, MO. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Matthew Shane Justus, Nicole (Vince) Marie Swaddley, Nathan (Kasi) Stoner, Colby (Maddie) Stoner, and Franklin Carl Justus, as well as her great-grandchildren, Kage Justus, Autumn Rose Justus, Emberly Justus, Blake Stoner, Austin Stoner, Caleb Stoner, Tristan McClain, Chase McClain, Hunter McClain, Harley McClain, Taylor McClain, Harper McClain, Hazel McClain, and Morgan McClain.

Joan is also survived by her brothers, David Horsman, Terry Horsman, Dennis (Lequietta) Horsman, and Ben Horsman, and her sisters, Doris (Pete) Horsman and Darlene Fitzpatrick. She leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, including Eddie (CJ), Kevin (Marci), Regina (Kevin), and Gwen (Don) Merritt, among others.

Preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Peggy Horsman, her beloved husband of 50 years, Harry Louis Justus, her brother, Harry Wayne Horsman, and her nephews, Rodney Dean Justus and Ronald Scott Justus, as well as her niece, Rochelle (Tad) Lynn Justus, Joan's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew her.

Joan was a woman of many passions. She was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, loved attending auctions, and had a green thumb that brought her garden to life. Her love for fishing was well-known, and she once tied for first place in a big fish contest. Joan also enjoyed mushroom hunting and the occasional visit to the casino. Her pets were like family to her, and she was a mother to many beyond her own children.

A visitation will be held at Bram Funeral Home in Maryville, MO, on Monday, August 24th, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am in the same location. Burial will follow at Prairie Home Cemetery in Graham, MO. Arrangements are being handled by Bram Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

Joan Marie Justus will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.