Joanna Killion

 Our mama suddenly passed away Friday evening, September 20th in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Born February 2, 1949 to Mattie Lou Petrea Baker and H.B. Baker in Dallas, Texas. She married James Powell and started a family in 1965 with Alesia (Powell) Massengale(Ron) James V. Powell II (Rhonda) and Scarlett (Powell) Bierne(Jon)

In 1984 she met and remained with J.W. Comer until the day she entered into eternal peace. Mama was the eldest of five children, Randy Baker, Gail Joslin, Richard Baker and June Baker. She leaves behind five grandchildren, John (John Boy) and Colten Powell, Savanna Jo, Andrew Vernon and Sara Jean Bierne. Five great grandkids, Aurora Grace, Sheyenne Jade and Kaylin Jean Marie Powell, Bridan and Nova Threlkeld.
 

This is our favorite picture of mama (we have so many) because of the beauty and innocence that radiates from her face. She was a true force and her passion (good or bad) was felt by anyone and everyone she came in contact with throughout her life. There was nothing casual about her, her appearance, clothes, living space, expressions, conversations and ideas, were always above and beyond. She loved music, Alan Jackson, Dolly, and Michael Jackson were among her top favorite artist. Her and JW actually attended one of Michael Jackson’s concerts. She could play poker, was considered a champion Wahoo player and loved being around people that made her feel as young as her character and personality always was and remains, which never never seemed to age with her body. She loved things of beauty, wanted to use her best China for company and never was without lipstick. We’ve never known anyone quite like her. She was a pistol and a fireball, mama could fight hard but loved harder. She was the smartest 8th grader we ever knew! Mama only made it through eighth grade before having her first husband and child at the age of 15. 

She was smart with everything and rose above her plight in life. She could make a nutritional meal and could clothe us and herself on a modest budget. She made sure we never went without and fulfilled our every want even if it meant fighting it out over a doll her daughter wanted that was in high demand at Christmas (true 60’s story.) She was so loved that even after her 16 year marriage was over with our father, she remained close personal friends with all her in-laws. We have many precious memories as everyone that knew her does. As her children ours are especially special because they belong to us. We will miss her for a million reasons. This is a pain and hurt that we have never experienced in our life. A part of who we are left with her, we came from her, she remains with us, not by connection but by life itself. Her children survive because of her blood that runs through our veins. We share something with her that nobody on this earth will ever share with her. We are of her and her essence, her body and legacy. We are the survivors of her life she lived and shared with us. We are her children. Mama, we know you are enjoying your rewards of being a good and faithful servant. I’ll see you soon, the last time we went fishing together will be not the last, I’ll look for you at the lake when I get there. We love you mama and we will all be together with you again.
> Accomplishments:
> Her salvation
> Her children
> Her marriage
> Received her GED in 2013 graduating top of her class