Joanne Rodgers Hardy, 62, of Conyers, passed away October 4, 2010. Joanne was born October 15, 1947 to William and Esther Rodgers originally of Winnipeg, Canada. She grew up in Pointe Claire, Montreal, Canada. She attended McGill University in Montreal and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1970 with a degree in Education; she subsequently achieved her Master's of Education from Georgia State University. Joanne was an educator for 34 years, served as President of the Rockdale County Association of Educators and received awards including the 1990-91 Teacher of the Year for Conyers Middle School. Joanne retired in 2004 as Assistant Principal for Clements Middle School in Covington, GA. Joanne was active in the Smyrna Presbyterian Church in Conyers, GA. and received their Presbyterian Women's Lifetime Achievement award. She enjoyed volunteering for neighborhood charities and outreach programs especially those focused on children.

Joanne was a story-teller extraordinaire; she had a wonderful sense of humor and a knack for finding just the right gift or card for her family and friends. She was an avid and vocal fan of athletic endeavors (especially her son's) and frequently had laryngitis following those outings.

Joanne is survived by Wayne, her husband of 38 years, her son Will, daughter-in-law Michelle, grandson Charlie, and brothers Drew of Lawrenceville, David of Toronto, and Rob of Dryden, Ontario, nieces and nephews, along with scores of friends.

Services will be at the Smyrna Campground and Presbyterian Church in Conyers at 2920 Highway 212, SW, Conyers, GA 30094 on Friday October 8 at 11:00 am. The family will receive visitors in the Church Parlor between 6:00 and 7:30 pm Thursday October 7th. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joanne's memory to her church.