Joanne Haftle McCarthy's Obituary
Joanne Haftle McCarthy
March 18, 1935 - March 16, 2021
Tacoma, Washington - Mom was born and raised under the big Montana skies and grew to be a lover of literature, poetry, and prose.
Mom was a notable English literature educator at Tacoma Community College for almost 30 years, a recipient of a Fulbright exchange to Nuernberg, Germany, a published author, and a freelance writer. She was a tough classroom instructor with the intention of fostering excellence, confidence, and independence.
Mom firmly believed that quality education should be accessible to all and was happy to be able to establish/sponsor educational scholarships through TCC.
She regularly met with her students as a supportive mentor, was proud of their successes, and enjoyed lasting friendships with several of them.
Mom was a: Single parent. Proud mother of six good looking, intelligent children. Proud grandmother of fourteen even better looking and more intelligent grandchildren. Book collector. Literary scholar. Wordsmith. Jazz lover. Wit. Feminist. Published poet/writer. Confidante. Mentor. Wise Woman. Supporter of the fine arts. Cancer survivor. Resolute champion of human rights for all.
Mom died at home following the progression of Alzheimer's disease. As arrangements and paperwork were being finalized, Mom left us with one last powerful and relevant message. On one of the forms, she had intentionally declared herself as "human" when asked for her race/ethnicity. That was just so Mom. Perfect.
What’s your fondest memory of Joanne?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joanne?
Share a story where Joanne's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joanne you’ll never forget.
How did Joanne make you smile?