Joanne D’Itri Fantone, 69, of Midland, passed away on September 13th, 2025 surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on December 3rd, 1955, a daughter of the late Joseph A. D’Itri and Mary Ann (Zuppe) D’Itri. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her infant brother, Patrick D’Itri. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Frank Fantone, her children, and grandchildren, as well as her siblings: Anthony (Tammy Grim), Dominic (Ruth Postich), Mary Catherine (Patton), Joseph Jr. (Ranee Dishler), Salvador (Natalie Thompson), and Virginia (Alan Lopata). She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who adored her: Caitlin and Brianna D’Itri, Emily, Aaron, and Alex D’Itri, MaryAnn Patton, Megan, Morgan, and Joseph G. D’Itri, Katrine, Gabriel, and Anna D’Itri.Joanne was a lifelong resident of Midland and a proud graduate of Midland Lincoln High School, Class of 1974. She shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Frank Fantone. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family, raising three children, Laura (Bryan Baca), Mary (John Paul Dickey), and Michael (Angela Galik), and cherishing five grandchildren: Bee Dickey, Isabel Dickey, Ethan Baca, Max Fantone, and Madison Fantone. Joanne found her greatest joy in family gatherings, holidays, and especially their treasured vacations together.
Joanne was a woman of deep Catholic faith and service who was actively involved in her parish and the Girl Scouts, first as a scout herself and later as a dedicated leader with her daughters’ troops. Her commitment to service and community was matched only by her enthusiasm for life. She was a passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan who rarely missed a game and attended many over the years, cheering with unwavering loyalty. She delighted in concerts and embraced a wide range of musical genres, and her love for the arts extended to the theater, where she found joy in live performances at the Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center in Midland, among other venues, and enjoyed the storytelling they offered.
Joanne was known for her sharp wit and infectious sense of humor: she could light up a room with a well-timed quip and always knew how to make others laugh, even in difficult moments. Beneath her warmth was a woman of remarkable strength, who faced adversity with grace and determination. She was a champion of truth, never afraid to speak up for what she believed in, and a fierce ally to those in need. Her voice was steady, her heart generous, and her presence a source of comfort and courage to many.
She also found great joy behind the lens of a camera, capturing candid moments of family gatherings, holidays, and vacations with a keen eye and loving heart. Her photographs told stories of connection and joy, and she had a special gift for finding beauty in nature—from blooming flowers to quiet sunsets. Just as she preserved memories through photography, Joanne also expressed her love through baking, especially her intricately decorated cookies made for weddings, holidays, and birthdays. Each batch was crafted with care and creativity, becoming a sweet centerpiece of celebration and tradition. Through both her lens and her oven, Joanne left behind a legacy of warmth, artistry, and the world as she saw it: full of wonder, grace, and love. Joanne’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, fierce love for her family, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone she met. Her warmth, laughter, and devotion will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Family and friends will be received on Thursday, September 18th from 3-6 p.m. at the SCHWERHA-NOLL FUNERAL HOME, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Blaise Roman Catholic Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland, at 10:30am on Friday, September 19th. Burial will take place at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.