Joann Elizabeth Brinza went to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 88, at Highland Springs Memory Care in Dallas, Texas. Born September 1, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio, she was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Michael and Margaret Brinza. She is survived by her sister, Connie McCreery of Dallas, TX; niece, Lisa Griffin (Bill) of Dallas, TX; and nephew, Mark McCreery (Sharon) of Burnsville, NC. Known affectionately as "Joannie" or "AJ" to friends and family, she was a devoted figure to her great-nieces and great-nephews: Lauren (Matthew), Michael (Ellie), Andrew, and Madison. She loved these "grandkids" fiercely, always offering an encouraging smile, kind words, and quiet prayers. Her longtime neighbors on Plainsfield Avenue in Brooklyn, Ohio—Carol Hovan and her children, Tina and Chris—were cherished as her extended family. A proud graduate of Brooklyn High School, Joannie returned there to spend her career as a dedicated chemistry teacher until her retirement. She instilled kindness, a love for science, and lifelong learning habits in generations of students. She holds both an undergraduate and master's degree in chemistry from Ohio University. Joannie's life story is defined by her vibrant passions. She had a lifelong love for cars— ranging from Studebakers to Jaguars and Fords—and always kept a highly desired vehicle in her driveway. Her extensive tool room was the envy of many, used for car maintenance, household projects, and her diverse hobbies, which included creating stained glass, making jewelry, playing the piano, and building a basement train set. Though few projects were ever completely finished, her joy lay in the process, the collecting, and sharing her enthusiasm with others. She also loved animals, opening her home (which she shared with her mother until Margaret's passing in 2010) to many neighborhood cats and a succession of seven beloved Chihuahuas, all named Pebbles. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on July 18 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 4170 N. Amber Lane, Brooklyn, Ohio, preceded by a visitation from 10:00-11:00 AM. Interment will follow at the Brinza family gravesite alongside her parents at Holy Cross Cemetery in Brook Park, Ohio.