Joann Mannell

JoAnn Y. Mannell, 77, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, August 26, 2006.

She was born October 20, 1928 in Smith Center, KS, the daughter of James D. and Harriett M. Young.

JoAnn worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone as an operator from 1947 to 1950. In 1970, she began working for USD 501 in the Food Service dept. at Central Park Elementary School. She then joined the Gifted Program as a Para Professional, working in a variety of locations. In 1999, she received the USD 501 "Para Professional of the Year" award for her work not only with the Gifted program, but also at Scott Magnet School where she ended her career. She retired in 2000 after working for 30 years for USD 501.

As music was an important part of her life, she sang in several area church choirs, most recently in the Westminster Presbyterian Choir. She had previously sang in the Central Congregational Choir. Prior to that, JoAnn had sang many years in the University United Methodist Choir where she eventually became the Choir Director. She remained a member of the University United Methodist Church. She was a member of many different organizations including; the National Federation of Music Club, Shawnee Choral Society, Melodears Womens Chorus, Music Study Club and was a Past President of the Civic Music Club. She was also a member of the 96th Infantry's Women Auxiliary, Professional Engineers Women Auxiliary, The Women's Society associated with the University United Methodist Church and was a lifetime member of the "Canasta Club".

JoAnn loved plants, flowers, birds, and music of all kinds. She was a collector and saver of many things and enjoyed all types of window shopping, especially antique stores. JoAnn contributed to many organizations, recognizing her blessings and sharing with others.

She married Leon H. Mannell on September 3, 1950. He preceded her in death on February 20, 2006.

She is survived by three children; Mark L. Mannell, Leann Mannell, and David B. Mannell; close family friends, Jack L. Quiett and Scott Longere; three grandchildren and a niece.

Mrs. Mannell will lie in state after 2:00 pm, Tuesday, August 29 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will greet friends from 5:30 to 7:30 pm that evening. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm, Wednesday, August 30 at the funeral home with burial to follow in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the JoAnn Y. Mannell Music Scholarship Fund, sent in care of Bank of America, 5325 SW. 21st St., Topeka, KS 66614 or the Topeka Rescue Mission, Inc., 600 N. Kansas Ave., P.O. Box 8550, Topeka, KS 66608-0350.