Joan Turner Retherford

 Joan Retherford, age 73, a resident of DeFuniak Springs, Florida passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2026 in Niceville, Florida.  She was born April 1, 1952, to Clarence Howard “C.H.”  and Era Mae Turner. Joan was a lady who lived life to the fullest!  She was always planning fishing trips, horseback trail rides, or any event that brought all her loved ones together. She had the grit and determination needed to succeed in the business world. In her early years, she owned and operated several businesses and in her later years she was employed as a case worker for the Cope Center where she found joy in helping children and their families. When her retirement years finally arrived, she enjoyed spending quality time with her children and grandchildren, as well as caring for her stepfather, Jerry. Joan’s grandchildren were the highlight of her life.  Fishing, playing cards, and making craft items with them were precious times for her.

She is preceded in death by her father, “C.H.” and her mother, Era Mae Turner Medsker; stepfather, Jerry Medsker; and brother, Donald Howard Turner.

Joan is survived by three children, Andrew Schaefer, Jr, Angela Martin, and Brandon Retherford and his wife Sarah; five grandchildren, Shelton, Camron, Jayden, Blaine, and Kaydance; nieces and nephews; cousins; many, many dear friends; and loved ones.  Joan always brought laughter and love into any environment that she entered and will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 8, 2026 in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home, 1474 State Highway 83 North DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433 beginning at 3:00 p.m. with Minister Joel Davis officiating.  A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins of DeFuniak Springs.