Joan J. Texter

Joan J. Texter, 88, of Kalamazoo, died March 14, 2026. Joan was born April 24, 1937 in Battle Creek to Dale and Marjorie (Kidder) Klepper. Joan grew up on Gull Lake and spent her summers enjoying all kinds of water activities. Her first job was as a lab tech before she went back to college and earned two master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Joan’s career began in education as a speech therapist and then teacher for children with learning disabilities. She spent most of her adult working career in education and retired from her long-time position as Special Education Administrator for Gull Lake Community Schools.

Joan was an avid reader and also enjoyed traveling and swimming. She volunteered her time at Borgess Hospital and local schools and was always very active in her church. Above all, Joan loved her family and cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren.

Joan is survived by her two children, Ronda (Rick) Furrow and Greg (Amy) Francisco; three stepchildren, John (Tracy) Texter, Julie (Mike) Texter and Sally Texter; 16 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and her sister, Nancy Gregg of Battle Creek. Joan was sadly preceded in death by her loving husband, Vernon Texter in 2019. She was married to her first husband, Ronald Franciso, which ended in divorce. He passed away in 2020.

As per Joan’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private inurnment will be held at Prairie Home Cemetery, Richland. Those wishing to make memorial contributions in memory of Joan are asked to consider the Sisters of St. Joseph Nazareth Center, 2929 Nazareth Rd., Kalamazoo, MI 49048. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.