Joanne Pruett

Joanne Pruett, 86, of Baroda passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM on Monday, April 27, 2026 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 3903 Lake St., Bridgman. Friends may meet with the family from 10 – 11 AM at the church on Monday, prior to the service. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, Bridgman. Memorial contributions may be given to the needs of the family. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com.

Joanne was born on August 24, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois, the cherished daughter of the late Theodore and Caroline (Clementi) Watt. Even as a young woman, her determination was evident, she took on cleaning work to help pay her tuition for Catholic school. On a beautiful journey through life, she was married to David Pruett, Sr., who was the light of her life. Their bond was a cornerstone of her world, built on a foundation of deep friendship, mutual respect, and a love that only grew stronger with each passing year. David preceded her in death on July 17, 1984, but the memory of their time together remained a guiding warmth for her for the rest of her days.

A devoted mother and the heart of her family, Joanne found her greatest fulfillment in caring for her grandchildren. While she worked some outside the home, her primary focus was always on her family, and her greatest joy was found in their laughter and presence. To them, their friends, and nearly everyone in her circle, she was affectionately known as "Little Grandma" -- a title that reflected the big love she held for everyone. A woman of strong faith, Joanne was a devoted member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. She had a sharp wit and a 'spicy' spirit that made every family gathering interesting and memorable. Her home was a place of warmth, often filled with the sounds of her favorite sports; she was an avid enthusiast who spent countless hours cheering during football and baseball games. She also enjoyed staying connected to the world through the news and found great comfort in the stories of the television show, Heartland. Her compassion extended beyond her human family to her many "four-legged children." Her life was marked by a profound love for animals, and she provided a loving home to many beloved dogs throughout her years, each one a loyal companion. Her legacy of kindness, her spirited love for the game, and her unwavering devotion to her family will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Survivors include her daughter, Carolyn Cawley; eight grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren; nine great great grandchildren; and sisters: Marlene Gray and Shirley Scott.

Joanne was also preceded in death by her son, David Pruett, Jr.; great grandson, Jason Pruett, Jr.; and great great granddaughters: Rose Lynne and Sofia Lee Schmaltz.

Arrangements are entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman.