Joanne Parrott

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Joanne Parrott, 82, of McAllen, TX passed away on May 3rd, 2026 and has joined our heavenly father, after more than a year of courageously battling cancer. Joanne was born on August 24,1943 to the late Harlowe and Isabelle (Smith) Shepherd. She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Raymond Parrott, her daughters Diana Mathews (Greg) of Virginia Beach, VA, Debra Giordano (Kip) of Greenville, SC and Denise Sanderson of Palm Harbor, FL, as well as seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother David Shepherd and several nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her infant son, Raymond Scott “Scotty” and brother Robert Shepherd.

Joanne grew up on the Shepherd family farm in Odessa, NY and was a graduate of Odessa-Montour Central School, class of 1961. She married her high-school sweetheart and moved to Norfolk, VA, while her husband was enlisted in the Navy, later returning to Upstate New York. She spent several years living in the Cayutaville community, where she was an active member of the Cayutaville Methodist Church. Joanne later moved to the Parrott Family Farm as 4th generation dairy farmers on Parrott Hill.

Joanne loved boating and being on the water, especially the St. Lawrence River where she loved to fish with family and friends. Vacations with friends and cruises were among her favorite getaways. She enjoyed hosting BBQ’s and celebrating many of life’s milestones with those she loved.

After retiring from farm life, Joanne and Ray set out to travel with their 5th-wheel RV. They enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, spending winters in McAllen, TX and summers on Cayuta Lake, before eventually settling in McAllen year-round with annual treks to visit family and friends. Joanne treasured their warm and welcoming Adobe Wells community, where she made many cherished friends and enjoyed playing a variety of card games and Mahjong. Community activities and weekly dinners out with friends were highlights she looked forward to. Joanne found joy in volunteering and giving back to her community, as well.

Friends are invited to visit the family on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 2:00-3:00 pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 3:00 pm at Vedder- Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. A reception will follow at the Montour Moose Lodge at 4 pm.