St. Therese expressed that “our lives are a prayer when we do small things with great love.” This is exactly how Joanne Easley lived her life.

Joanne Nowicki Easley was born on January 17, 1940 in Gary, Ind. to Matthew and Harriet Nowicki. She was educated in the Catholic school system in South Bend, Ind., a graduate of St. Joseph High School and Saint Mary College in Notre Dame, Ind.

Joanne married George Easley (1956 Pius X graduate) on Dec. 30, 1961. From 1962-1984, they welcomed 12 children (eight girls and four boys) and today have 30 grandchildren.

There was no doubt in Joanne’s mind that her children would receive a Catholic education. All 12 children attended grade school at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ before attending and graduating from Pius X High School (Barbara ’81, Teresa ’82, Jeanne ’84, Margo ’86, Georgia ’87, Ed ‘89, Matt ‘91, Carmen ‘92, Maggie ‘93, Anne ‘96, David ‘98, Joseph ‘02).

Joanne lost her courageous battle and her life to cancer on November 23, 2010. During the last remaining days, she truly put her trust in the Lord and lived with faith, grace and humility. She leaves us with these words “Pray for me as I for thee that happily we may meet in Heaven.”

Joanne was a dedicated and loving wife and mother. She and George were married for 49 years. They loved and lived a great life together, and every seemingly simple and mundane thing she did for her children was always done with great love.

Catholic schools embody her beliefs, and inspired her husband, George, to establish this scholarship in her memory. It reflects her dedication to faith, Catholic education and Pius X High School. Pius X has been and continues to be an integral part of their lives. Thank you George for sharing this lasting tribute of Joanne with us. Her legacy will impact Catholic education and Pius X students and families for a lifetime.