The last 11 years of Joan's life were spent at Lake of the Woods in Locust Grove. She was seriously involved with mah-jongg, which she played every Friday with a great group of friends. She also participated in a bridge group and shared her ancient, as she called herself, perspectives with the Lake of the Woods book club. She was also an opera aficionado. Most importantly, she was a loving and caring mother and grandmother.

She will be missed by her daughter, Jeddy Bassford-Riendeau (Joe Riendeau); her son, Hank Bassford (Ceci Bassford); and her grandchildren, JB, Lizzy, Maya, Nicki and Alec.

Joan Armutis Bassford was an amazing woman who made a difference in all the lives she touched.

A visitation and rosary will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, at Johnson Funeral Home, Locust Grove. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Fredericksburg. Interment will be private. A reception will be held at her son's home, after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Salesian Missions, 2 Lefevre Lane, New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801; or to Boys Town, 200 Flanagan Blvd., Boys Town, Neb. 68010.

An online guest book and obituary are available at johnsoncares.com.