Joanna Todd

Joanna Todd, of 79 Mirehouse Run, Asheville, N.C., passed away peacefully at her home on January 26th, 2026. The daughter of James Todd and Marguerite Lawson, she was born on October 13th, 1936. Joanna was raised in Moberly, Missouri, and grew up on West Carpenter Street, where she enjoyed being surrounded by the journalistic influence of her father’s vocation as a veteran newspaperman and Editor of the Moberly Monitor Index.

Her distinguished career as a librarian began with her graduation from the University of Missouri in 1958 and continued forward with a degree in Library Science from Peabody University in 1961. During the coming years she held the position of librarian in Kansas City and Baltimore, M.D., as well as Reference Librarian at the University of Missouri. She also held the distinction of serving as Head Librarian at Stephens College in Columbia during her professional career.

In 1991, Joanna married William R. Brown of Moberly Missouri. In 2009, they subsequently relocated to Asheville, North Carolina, captivated by the charm and beauty of the mountains. Though Bill preceded Joanna in death in 2014, she continued to thrive and to actively participate in two of her passions; a love for books and reading, and her dedication and commitment to the P.E.O. Sisterhood. At the time of her passing, Joanna had the distinction of being a 68-year member of P.E.O. and at the was a member of local chapter AC/NC. She served in leadership and countless other capacities over her decades of service, a commitment which gave her pride and satisfaction in the organization for truly making a difference in the lives of others, notably women seeking success through educational opportunities.

For decades her lifelong love affair with books was exemplified by her stalwart support for Friends of The Library at The University of Missouri. Her passion for books was also nourished by her membership of her local book club, The Book Circle. It was a source of connection for her in many ways, and a vital part of her joy in daily living.

Joanna leaves behind all of us that are in admiration of her determination and tenacity as she forged a path through life, despite challenges, and were charmed by her sweet nature and outlook on life.