Joan Wanda Cranford

Joan Wanda Cranford was born December 31, 1948 in Memphis, TN, the daughter of the late Elbert Bryson Lawrence and Eldred Alice Singleton Lawrence.

Joan was united in marriage to Ronald Edward Cranford on September 11, 1999. Mr. Cranford preceded her in death on March 8, 2020.

Joan had an unparalleled warmth that touched everyone around her. Known for her generous spirit, she never met a stranger and always welcomed guests into her home with open arms and a full plate. To the neighborhood children, she was like a second mother—nurturing, kind, and always ready with a smile.

Her vibrant personality shone through in her simple joys. Whether she was watching a Lifetime movie, shopping, camping, or creating lasting memories on family vacations, Joan embraced life with a heart full of love.

Joan departed this life on July 29, 2025, in Bolivar, Tennessee, at the age of 76 years, 6 months, and 29 days. Though she may no longer be with us, her spirit, and the love she shared will forever remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by her children: Kimberly Wyatt, Tammy Finger (Mickey), and Robert Stewart Jr.; sister, Kathleen Fowler; grandchildren: Clifton Eugene Wyatt Jr., Chesley Flynn (Joel), Alexander Wyatt (Melissa), Ashley Watkins (Josh), Noah Finger, Gavin Graves (Caliegh), Bobby Graves (Brianna), Ethan Stewart; great-grandchildren, Abbi Duncan, Lawson Duncan, Lane Watkins, Lucy Watkins, Emily Mooney, and Nelly Graves; half sister, Brenda Norris; half brother, Dwight Lawrence; sister-in-law, Brenda Hazelrig (Butch); and a host of other relatives and friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Joan was preceded in death by two brothers, Floyd Mitchell and Robert Ford; and sisters, Jeri Carpenter Pickett and Norma Jeane.