With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of JoAnn Hanna Cook, a cherished mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, on February 15, 2025, at the age of 89. Mom was a woman of remarkable energy, boundless creativity, and unwavering love for her family and faith. She touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving a legacy of resilience, kindness, and beauty.
Born on February 13, 1936, in Wellington, Utah, to William Albert Hanna and Jessie Deveneth Ballard Hanna Petersen. Mom experienced a challenging childhood, often moving between homes. These early hardships shaped her deep appreciation for family and instilled in her a steadfast determination to create a loving, stable home for her own children. She was a devoted sister to four siblings—Phelin “Figs” Hanna, Mona Lee Hanna Boren, Gilbert “Gib” Jay Hanna, and Terry Tom Hanna—and four half-siblings.
On June 6, 1951, Mom married the love of her life, Marion W. Cook, in the Manti, Utah Temple. Together, they built a beautiful family of seven children. Though life brought its challenges, including the eventual dissolution of their marriage, Mom’s love for her family never wavered. She later married Earl R. Herring on April 6, 1984, and continued to be a pillar of strength and devotion to those she held dear.
Mom was a woman of many extraordinary talents. Whether in her salon, sewing, baking, cooking, golfing, bowling, tackling DIY projects, or tending her garden, she approached everything with passion and precision. Her yard was recognized multiple times with the “Yard of the Month” award, a testament to her love for beauty and dedication to hard work. A skilled hairdresser, she taught cosmetology for many years at the college, she served on the Utah Hair Fashions Committee and as the State Styles Director, organizing state hair shows to introduce new trends. Her creativity extended to refinishing furniture, painting, and jewelry making, always finding ways to bring beauty into the world. She often said, “God does it best,” marveling at the natural wonders around her.
Her musical gifts were equally impressive. A self-taught pianist, organist, and violinist, she filled her home with the sounds of beautiful melodies, sharing her love for music with those around her.
A convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mom’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved the scriptures deeply and lived by the teachings of Christ, serving in many church callings. Her favorite role was as a seminary teacher, where she found great joy in sharing the gospel with the youth.
An enthusiastic sports fan, Mom passionately supported her children and grandchildren in their athletic endeavors. Whether on the field or in the stands, her presence was unmistakable, and referees always knew which team she was cheering for. She also found great joy in the outdoors, especially boating, where she created lasting memories with family and friends.
Mother believed in fostering independence. She encouraged her children to embrace opportunities, providing music lessons and supporting their athletic pursuits while instilling confidence and resilience.
Her strength was tested when her eldest son, Clyde C. Cook, tragically passed away in an automobile accident just six months after returning from his mission. Though the loss was profound, her faith remained unshaken, and her love for her children continued to guide her through life’s trials.
Mom’s birthday was always celebrated on February 13th. However, upon applying for a passport later in life, she discovered that the doctor had recorded her birthdate incorrectly as February 11th. From then on, she was required to claim the wrong date, much to her dismay.
She is survived by her six remaining children, Nanette Cook, Denielle Cook, Karalee (Bill) Heath, Quinn A. (Melissa) Cook, Thomas M. Cook, and Atalie (N. Michael) Van Dam. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Doris Hanna; brother, Tom (Barbara) Hanna; as well as 27 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who were blessed to know her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Figs, Mona, and Gib; her former husband, Marion; her beloved son, Clyde; and her grandson, Logan Michael Cook.
She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, faith, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Christine and staff of Symbii, as well as Mitchell Funeral Home, for their compassionate care, and to all who loved and supported our Mother throughout her life.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Mom’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Price 5th Ward in the Price North Stake Center (449 N 100 E, Price, Utah). A visitation will take place on Tuesday, February 18, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Price North Stake Center and again on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the church before the service. Mom will be laid to rest beside her son Clyde in the Price City Cemetery, with graveside services immediately following.
Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of JoAnn online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net
TO VIEW THE LIVESTREAM OF JOANN’S FUNERAL SERVICE PLEASE GO TO MITCHELL FUNERAL HOME’S WEBSITE: www.mitchellfuneralhome.net UNDERNEATH JOANN’S OBITUARY PAGE 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SERVICE ON WEDNESDAY MORNING.