Joanne Marie Root

Joanne Marie (Benedict) Root Age 64 of Polk City, FL, formerly of Elmira, NY, Laurens, SC, and Zanesville, OH.Passed away at home unexpectedly on February 4, 2009 in Polk City, FL. Joanne was born in Elmira, NY on November 4, 1944 the daughter of the late Raymond and Phyllis Reynolds Benedict.Joanne is survived by her loving husband of 34 years, Perry Root, also son, Jeff Root of Englewood, FL, daughters Elaine (Bill) Game of Horseheads, NY Renee (Timothy) Ricks of Elmira; Grandchildren: Lauren, Kirsten, Kayleigh, and Brandon; Brothers: Raymond (Betty) Benedict of Blairsville, GA, John (Yvonne) Benedict of Sundance, WY, James (Greer) Benedict of Lakeland, FL and Ronald (Debbie) Benedict of Franklin, NC, several nieces and nephews. Joanne was predeceased by her son, Joseph Root.She was a member of the First Baptist Church at the Mall, Lakeland, FL and also attended Mount Olive Baptist Church in Polk City, FL. She was a past member of Southside Baptist Church, Elmira, NY. Joanne will best be remembered for her thoughtful drive; She was always thinking of others. She poured her love of others into her Card Fellowship, sending cards to everyone she knew to celebrate memorable moments in their lives. One could always count on receiving an unexpected card from Joanne. She loved her family and loved to spend time with them, camping. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, whom devoted her life to the Lord.Family and friends are invited to call at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira, NYOn Sunday February 8, 2009 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and on Monday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM with Funeral and Committal Service there Monday at 3:00 PM the Reverend James Crupi will officiate. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Please make memorials in Joanne Roots name to the charity of ones choice.A "Candle of Remembrance" may be left for the family in Obituaries atwww.olthof.com.