Joanne Ellen Stahl, Indianapolis, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the age of 69 years. Joanne was born September 22, 1956, in Kokomo, Indiana, the daughter of the late Bernard Charles and Louise (Turrin) Stahl. She attended Beech Grove High School where many lifelong friendships began and where she was a member of the undefeated basketball team. Soon after graduating with the Class of 1974, Joanne began a long and fulfilling career in the aviation industry.

Joanne’s love of travel and people led her to a career she loved. She worked for Braniff Airlines and TWA before dedicating 26 years as a flight attendant with ATA. She remained with the company until its closing, forming lasting friendships and collecting countless memories from her years in the skies. Outside of her professional life, Joanne found joy in the simple and meaningful things. She had a deep love for the outdoors and spent many peaceful hours gardening, cultivating both flowers and vegetables with care. Her adventurous spirit carried her across the globe, with travels that included memorable trips to Africa, Australia and Italy. She was a creative soul with a flair for design. She enjoyed painting, mosaics and was a lover of music—especially the sounds of Elton John, Whitney Houston, Jimmy Buffett, Toto and John Barry. 

Joanne had a vast circle of friends and was known for her warm personality, sense of humor and her genuine commitment to the people she loved. If you ever met Joanne, she was instantly your friend. These qualities naturally led her into a second career in caregiving, where she provided compassionate in-home care and also served at Methodist Hospital. Her kindness and empathy left a lasting impression on all who knew her. An animal lover at heart, Joanne held a special place for her beloved cats, especially Gatto. Above all, she cherished her family and friends and treasured every moment spent together. 

Joanne is survived by her sister, Mary Ann (Danny) Pennington; her niece and nephews, Emily Pennington (Bryan Hedelius), Eric Pennington and Justin (Lora) Stahl; and her great-nieces, Kylie Pennington and Margaret Stahl. 

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother, Leonard Stahl. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 pm on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Nativity Catholic Church, 7225 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis. Joanne will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens. Family and friends are invited to gather from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in Greenwood. 

Joanne’s life was marked by kindness, adventure, creativity, and deep love—qualities that will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.