JoAnn Hargrave

Obituary for JoAnn Carroll Hargrave (née Higgins)

JoAnn Carroll Hargrave, cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted Christian, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 11, 2025, in Long Beach, California, at the age of 87. She was born in Dell, Arkansas, to the late Joe and Charlcie Higgins and was preceded in death by her brothers, Stacy and Garland Higgins.

She is survived by her five children: Eric Conover (Stephanie), Leslie Conover Bruno (Les), Cheryl Hargrave Whittie (David), Catherine Hargrave Salvatori (Christopher), and Robert Hargrave IV. She was a proud grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of two. JoAnn was preceded in death by her first husband, Charles Conover, and her loving husband, Robert Hargrave.

JoAnn earned a nursing degree and dedicated her career to caring for others before choosing to be a stay-at-home mother, fully devoted to raising her children. She was an active Girl Scout leader, PTA member, and her children’s most enthusiastic supporter.

With a beautiful voice and a love for music, JoAnn sang in church choirs throughout her life. She was an avid reader who enjoyed mystery novels and movies. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel the world, with Hawaii being her favorite destination.

JoAnn’s faith was the foundation of her life, and her favorite Bible verse was “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9). She will be remembered for her kindness, patience, and gentle spirit. Even as she faced Alzheimer’s, her sweet nature never wavered.

A private funeral service will be held at Forest Lawn Cypress on February 27. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Alzheimer’s Foundation or the American Cancer Society in her honor.

She is now at peace in the presence of her Heavenly Father.