Joan Elizabeth Campbell, 69, peacefully passed away on February 21, 2026, surrounded by the friends and family she cherished. Born on June 5,1956, Joan lived a life defined by kindness, dedication, and a deep devotion to the people she loved most. Her presence was a steady, comforting force, and her influence will be felt for generations.
On November 29, 1975, Joan married Chris “Clyde” Campbell, whom she met shortly after high school. This past November, the two joyfully celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, a milestone that symbolized not just the passage of time, but the strength of their bond, the memories they created, and the family they built together. Their partnership was filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another, forming the foundation of a warm and welcoming home.
Joan spent much of her life embracing the outdoors, where she felt most at peace. She had a special love for horses and treasured the moments she spent giving her grandchildren horse rides, each ride filled with excitement, joy, and connection. Trail rides with “the crew” were among her favorite adventures, times that brought laughter, companionship, and stories retold for years. She also loved camping and spending long days and nights surrounded by friends and family. True to who she was, fussing over the little details that made every outing, celebration, and get‑together feel special.
Professionally, Joan enjoyed a long and fulfilling career at the Savings Bank, where she was known for her reliability, warm personality, and genuine care for others. She built lasting friendships with her coworkers and deeply valued the personal interactions she shared with customers over the years. Her friendly smile, steady presence, and knack for brightening someone’s day made her a beloved member of the banking community.
Her greatest pride and joy were her family, especially her grandchildren. Nothing made her light up more than being “Nana.” Whether she was cheering from the sidelines, sharing a horse ride, offering encouragement, or simply soaking up the noise and chaos of a full house, she adored every minute spent with them.
Joan is survived by her mother, Carol (Dave) Duncan; husband, Chris; siblings, Bobbie (Kevin) Heckethorn, Mike Chickering; sons, Shane (Kylee) and Travis (Sammie); and seven grandchildren, Macie, Patrick, Dane, Cameron, Connor, Genevieve, and Elizabeth.
She was preceded in death by her father, Robert “Bob” Chickering, and a sister, Cindy Bride.
Joan will always be remembered for her generous heart, her quiet strength, and her warm, welcoming nature. She had a gift for making others feel seen, appreciated, and cared for. Her legacy lives on in her family, in the memories created around campfires and on wooded trails, and in the countless lives she touched with her kindness and compassion.
Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Wagler Funeral Home in Bloomfield with Pastor Brian Hargrave officiating. Visitation will begin at noon on Friday with the family present to greet friends from 5-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to Good Samaritan Society Hospice in Ottumwa.
