Joanne (Castelli) Putman



Joanne Putman of Houston, Tx passed away on March 24,2025. She was a true example of strength and courage, and we were blessed to call her Mom. Born in Binghamton, New York on May 1, 1952, to Raymond and Anne Castelli, she was the third of eleven children.  She is survived by her daughters, Anna(Jody), and Rachel, sisters Maryellen, Vicky, Judy(Tom), and brothers Tony(Adina), Fred(Angie), John(Sharon), Louie, and Chris. She is also survived by her niece Taylor-with whom she shared a very special relationship-in addition to many other nieces, nephews, and in-laws-too many loved ones to list! She is predeceased by her husband Michael Putman, her parents, and brothers Patrick and Michael.

While we are beyond saddened she had to leave us, we find joy in the reunion she is having in Heaven with her “Putt”-the love of her life. They met in California while serving in the army and were married for 44 years.

Joanne, also affectionately known as Jo or JoMama, worked as an operating room specialist in the army.  She dedicated her life to being a stay at home Mom and would later go on to work at St Rose of Lima ECC, retiring after 17 years from a career in childcare. She enjoyed cooking and made the best potato salad, scary movies, traveling to places near and far (especially with her sisters), and was the ultimate crafter-back before it was even cool. She was always up for a good outing whether it be shopping, going to the beach, a sporting event, the casino, a concert or the theatre. She was a lover of animal shows-Dr. Pol becoming the other man in her life. With the influence of daughter Rachel, she became the biggest Houston Astros enthusiast. She enjoyed camaraderie as a member of the Red Hat Society (she and her friends being named the Red Hat Mamas) rocking her red and purple attire. She was known to stay up way too late catching up on her favorite shows with her daughter Anna. 

She will also be remembered for her iconic dance moves, dippin DOTS, and her fascination with sharks and her love of owls.

She was selfless and would do anything for the people she loved. She volunteered and donated to many causes and put the needs of others before her own-even until the very end. We will miss her forever. 

There isn’t enough gratitude that can be expressed to Aunt Judy and Uncle Tom for opening up their home without hesitation to Mom and Dad, and ultimately us too. They worked tirelessly to make sure we were all taken care of (as they have our entire lives) and words fall short of truly expressing what that has meant to us. We also want to thank Chris and Natasha with Houston Hospice, who treated Mom with love and compassion.  Their relationships blossomed into friendships that brought much joy to our Mom.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude.

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