JoAnne Dillon Setser, age 86, formerly of Green Valley Acres, Morehead, KY, and widow of Dr. Howard L. Setser, passed away Friday, March 28, 2025, at Hospice of Hope in Maysville.

Born April 6, 1938, in May's Lick, KY, she was a daughter of the late Porter and Rella Cracraft Dillon.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Doris Middleton.

JoAnne and Howard were wed December 26, 1958, at Bethel Methodist Church and enjoyed 60 years of marriage and growing a family together until his passing on January 13, 2019.

She is survived by one son, David Lee Setser and wife Ellen Setser of Hebron, New Hampshire; one daughter, Elizabeth Anne Berry and husband Dr. Robert Michael Berry of May's Lick; one brother, Larry Ross Dillon of May's Lick; one sister, Velda Martin of Cynthiana, KY; and three grandchildren, Whitney Ellen Vos, Robert Jacob Berry, and Joshua Dillon Berry.

JoAnne graduated from May's Lick High School in 1955 and earned her bachelor's degree from Morehead State University in 1959 and later her master's and Rank 1, also from MSU.

JoAnne's career as an educator was diverse and rewarding.  She enjoyed each role during nearly three decades in the classroom and in administration.  When Howard was drafted in the U.S. Army in 1958 and stationed in Ft. Knox, JoAnne taught in Elizabethtown; and for the next two years, each move brought a different school experience for JoAnne.

When JoAnne and Howard returned to Morehead, JoAnne served for the next 23 years as an elementary school teacher, a principal at Tilden Hogge Elementary and a supervisor in the Rowan County Schools central office.  She was recognized for her work in early childhood development as a part of the Even Start program and the Licking Valley Child Care Organization.

Always goal-oriented and a lifelong learner, following her retirement, she worked in real estate and immersed herself in community activities.  She was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club and hosted visiting members from abroad. An accomplished artist and painter, JoAnne was a member of the Cave Run Arts Association; was active in converting the old county courthouse to the Rowan County Court House and Arts Center; assisted in compiling information for the Veterans Wall; and continued her many contributions as a longtime member of the Morehead United Methodist Church.

JoAnne's life was always focused on family. She always encouraged her children to pursue their equestrian and flying dreams, and instilled many family values in her children and grandchildren. After retirement, she worked tirelessly to preserve her family's farm in May's Lick through forestry conservation. She loved the outdoors and had a lifelong passion for nurturing her assortment of flowers.  JoAnne will be lovingly remembered by those whose lives she touched during her earthly journey.

Funeral services will be conducted 12 noon Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Aaron Mansfield officiating.  Burial will follow in Brown Cemetery.

Pallbearers:  Dr. Allen Risk, Jerry Middleton, Bill Pulliam, Robert Jacob Berry, Joshua Dillon Berry and Dr. Robert Michael Berry.

Honorary pallbearer: Larry Ross Dillon

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the service at 12 noon Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals in Morehead, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Hospice of Hope in Maysville, KY (https://hospiceofhope.com/Donate) or to a charity of your choice.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com