Joanne E. Akey

ATHOL- Joanne Edith (Rhodes) Akey, 78, of Athol, died Friday, March 3, 2017, in her home, after an illness. She was born September 8, 1938, in Athol, daughter of the late, Delbert and Cecelia (Piette) Rhodes. Joanne grew up in Athol and graduated from Athol High School in 1956 where she was a cheerleader. Mrs. Akey worked at L.S. Starrett Company for 36 years before retiring in February 2008. She also worked as a waitress at the Fox Run and Old Mill restaurants. She enjoyed spending time with her family, camping at Kenoile Village in Newfane VT. She enjoyed cooking for her family and liked to watch cooking shows. She always enjoyed her dogs. She was a devoted Yankee fan. She leaves five children, Terry Akey and his wife Monique, Sherry Johnstone and her husband Jeffrey, Cindy Mallet and her husband Robert, Gwen Talbot and friend, all of Athol, Lori Oliver and her husband Richard of New Salem; a brother, Brian Rhodes and his wife Susan of NC; 16 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Mrs. Akey was predeceased by her daughter, Maryellen, and by a brother, Robert Rhodes. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 8, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. in Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main St., Athol. Burial will follow in Gethsemane Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made in her memory to the Athol Animal Shelter 450 Thrower Road, Athol, MA 01331 or to a charity of one’s choice To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com. Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home 146 Main St., Athol is assisting with arrangements.