Joan Levonia Elum, born on December 21, 1937, in Harrisburg, Ilinois, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024, in Mishawaka, Indiana. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Robert Lee Elum, and a loving mother to her two sons, Ronald of Philadelphia and Charles of Mishawaka, Indiana.

Joan was the youngest of ten children born to Willam and Levonia Crawford. She was preceded in death by sisters; Lucille Powell, Virginia Pearl Jones, Magilene Webb, Wilma Wilson, Carrie Fuller, Ollie Ulmer, Norma Hinton, and Estella Crawford, and a brother; James Crawford.

Joan had a fulfilling career as a nurse with the South Bend Community School Corporation, where she dedicated 35 years of her life to the health and well-being of students at Harrison Elementary and Adams and Clay High Schools. Known for her kind spirit, she served as a confidant to hundreds of students, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Joan will be remembered for her compassion, warmth, and unwavering support to those around her. She touched the hearts of many and will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.