Joni Lynn Splane

Joni Lynn Splane, passed away just after midnight on Thursday, June 3, 2021, at her home in Show Low, Arizona.  She was 59 years old.  Joni was born on Sunday, October 29, 1961, in Globe, Gila County, Arizona to her parents, the late Coy Bufford and Patsy Arlene (Lannon) Splane.

Joni went to Miami High School in Miami, Arizona where she was a good friend to many. She moved to Show Low about 20 years ago and hers was a friendly and familiar face wherever she went.  She looked for the joy that life had to offer.  She loved a good laugh and she shared her smile, daily, with others around her.  She worked hard throughout her life and loved caring for children; whether it was through babysitting her grandbabies or even running her own day care for others' children.  Those kids were a constant reminder of why we need to live life to the fullest, and she did her best at living her best life!  

Joni's family was first and foremost in her life. She loved her parents dearly and she proclaimed herself to be a "Mama's Girl" as she was especially close to her mother. Joni taught her children lessons that will bless them forever.  Her son, Joseph, learned "not to take anything for granted." Her daughter, Desiree, said that her mother taught her that even through the most difficult trials of life she, should "never give up." The wisdom she shared with her children and grandchildren will be a silent voice that they will always heed.  She relished in the accomplishments of her children and to see them succeed meant everything to her. Her daughter-in-law will always remember the fun trips to the casino and the way she found joy in the simple things of life and how her infectious smile and instantaneous laughter could always lighten anyone's mood. 

Joni loved being outside working in the yard.  She loved gardening and found a great deal of "peace" simply by watering the yard.  She loved cats and loved to spoil them with treats.  The soothing sound of their purr was payback enough for her.  Joni also loved going to Roosevelt Lake.  She spent countless hours there with both family and friends over the years and knew just about every nook and cranny of that lake! 

Joni is survived by her 4 children: Andrea (Ryan Baxter) Castillo of Globe, AZ, Joseph (Christine) Castillo, Sr., of Globe, AZ, Asia Gerardo of Show Low, AZ, Desiree Splane of Show Low, AZ; her 8 grandchildren: Courtney Baxter, Joseph Castillo, Jr., Iasic Castillo, Hailey Mishler, Devin Castillo, Abriana Atwood, Atlin Lipps, Sevryn Bradford; and her brother, Jerry (Marsie) Splane of Globe, Arizona.