Joanne Smith Hendricks

Joanne Smith Hendricks

Cedar Rapids

Joanne Smith Hendricks, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 94.

Joanne lived a happy and fulfilling life. She was born on August 11, 1931, in Rockford, Iowa, the middle daughter of Lynn Omer Smith and Jeanne Lorene Crabtree Smith. After graduating from Rockford High School in 1949, she attended and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1953 with a Bachelor of Music degree. A gifted and accomplished pianist, Joanne’s love of music was a defining thread throughout her life.

While at the University of Iowa, Joanne met Dr. Clifford Hendricks, Jr., and the two fell in love. They married in 1954 and, in 1961, moved together to Cedar Rapids, where they built their home and raised their three children. Although their marriage later ended, Joanne remained a truly wonderful and devoted mother who cared deeply for her family and took great pride in her children and grandchildren.

Joanne was a proud member of the Scottish Highlanders and Delta Delta Delta sorority. She was also a member of First Church of Christ, Scientist, P.E.O., and the University of Iowa Foundation President’s Club. She enjoyed a good game of bridge, time on the golf course, traveling, and meaningful moments spent with family and friends.

Joanne was exceptionally well traveled. She explored countries like China, Russia, Mexico and most of Eastern and Western Europe, always eager to experience new cultures. She had a deep appreciation for art, music, and history, and she approached the world with curiosity, elegance, and joy.

Later in life, Joanne met Donald Stamy, the love of her life. Together, they shared a beautiful partnership filled with travel, cultural exploration, music, art, and laughter. Don passed just a few months before Joanne but their bond remained a cherished chapter of her life.

Joanne is survived by her son, Dr. Clifford (Jean) Hendricks III of New Orleans, Louisiana, and his son, Evan Hendricks; two daughters, Deborah (Michael) O’Connell of Morgan Hill, California, and their children, Taylor (Aimee), Michael Jr., and Cameron O’Connell; and Kristin Hendricks of Marion, and her son, Bennett Hendricks of New Orleans, Louisiana. She is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Everly and Parker O’Connell.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Dorothy Miller and Marilyn Dodd; her former husband, Dr. Clifford Hendricks, Jr.; and her beloved partner, Donald Stamy.

The family will celebrate her life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the University of Iowa Foundation, P.O. Box 4550, Iowa City, IA 52244, or to the charity of your choice.