Joann C Rawlings

Joann Rawlings passed away peacefully on January 17, 2021, at age 90, surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death, by her husband of 54 years, Hank Rawlings. She is survived by her daughters, Chris ( Bud/deceased) Pam Cheney (Paul), Maggi Erhart (Bob) , her grandchildren, Robert and Caroline Erhart, William and Andrew Cheney, step grandson, Kevin Crapsey, and her devoted caregiver, Sherry Motley.

She was a strong independent spirit who made an impact upon all who knew her. She had a magnetic personality, a positive outlook, and was known for her kindness, infectious laugh and quick wit. She was a voracious reader and had the courage of her convictions. Most of all she was known for her deep love for her family and friends. Her daughters were her world. She had a close bond with her grandchildren, and delighted in their achievements. They were always her priority.

Joann was born in 1930 in Dayton KY to Leslie and Cecelia Schwarz. She was a much loved only child. Her two lifelong friends were the sisters of her heart. They were Betty Pridemore (friend since age 5) and Audrae Stambaugh, (friend since age 15).

After graduating from Notre Dame of Providence Academy in Newport, she soon met Hank Rawlings at an Eagles Dance in Bellevue. They married and moved from Northern Kentucky to Cincinnati for Hank’s career as an engineer with The City of Cincinnati and later UC. Joann reared 3 daughters and made a wonderful home. Known for being super organized she could juggle kids ‘schedules, countless mother-in- law doctor appointments, cook a mean pot roast and make an extra dry martini. Her house was the “hang-out house” for her children and their friends and a haven for her friends and neighbors.


“One of her greatest gifts,” said her daughter Chris’s friend, Mary Ann Raphael, “was her common sense and insight into human nature. She was always available to listen to any situation, give her advice in a gentle but authoritative way. She had a way of mirroring back what you knew all along, but didn’t have the courage to do. But you walked away with the confidence she was absolutely right and she was behind you all the way.
She had a deep generosity about her – with her time, her advice, her concern. You were always welcome in her house, her pool, at her bar! She had a huge heart. “

Joann became the care giver for her mother-in-law and her mother for several years ( for a while, both at the same time ). She served as an unforgettable example to her daughters -- loving your family above all else. She never complained and got through it with a sense of humor and don’t forget -- those martinis.
We can all honor Joann (our mom, mother-in-law , grandma and friend) by caring for others as she did all her life. She will be greatly missed by all of us who loved her.