Joanne Martin, 71, of Ephrata passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at WellSpan Ephrata Hospital.

Joanne was born to the late James Zimmerman and Jean Zimmerman-Alvisi in Ephrata, PA.

She graduated from Lancaster Mennonite High School. She then went on to pioneer as one of the first women to work at Sperry New Holland’s assembly line.

Joanne was an inspiration to others with a smile that would light up any room. She always said “Laughter was the best medicine”. She loved spending the most time with her mother and her 6 grandchildren. Family beach vacations were some of her fondest memories. She had a heart for children and happily taught Sunday School for more than 50 years. She had a passion for arts and crafts, and could find beauty in anything. She enjoying bringing her craft skills to life each year through Vacation Bible School.

She was survived by her mother, Jean Zimmerman-Alvisi, her husband Raymond Martin, who celebrated 42 years of marriage, and her four children: Jareen, Javan, Jairus, Jethro, their spouses and 6 grandchildren. 

A viewing will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 9:30am-11:00am, followed by the memorial service at Alive Church at 510 Stevens Road, Ephrata, PA 17522.