Joan Granoff

Joan Granoff, daughter of the late Milton and Mae Tauber, was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many. Born and raised in Chicago, Joan was passionate about learning from a very young age, and that passion remained with her throughout her life. She was the quintessential lifelong learner. After attending the University of Illinois for a year, Joan transferred to the University of Arizona once her parents moved to Phoenix, seeking refuge from the Chicago winters. It was there that she met Alvin, who knew from the moment he laid eyes on her that she was the one he would marry. Joan graduated with a degree in speech. After Joan and Alvin wed, the couple relocated to Houston, where they lovingly raised their children Donna, Susan, Peggy, and Mark. Throughout her life, Joan’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable. She continually sought opportunities for personal growth, taking classes to better herself and embracing new experiences. She was a voracious reader and loved nothing more than discussing her latest books, usually nonfiction, with anyone who would listen. Known for her boundless curiosity, Joan delved into the lives of musicians, scientists, political leaders, and anyone who contributed to making the world a better place. She constantly worked to expand her horizons. For instance, inspired by all of the golfers in the family, Joan took it upon herself to read Golf for Dummies and could often be found watching the Golf Channel, in order to engage in meaningful conversations when the guys came to visit. Her remarkable memory, akin to that of a much younger person, was a testament to her intellect and sharp mind. Her extraordinary ability to recall people, events, and details with clarity remained with her until the end of her life. Recently, she met her goal of memorizing every word and its meaning in the unabridged dictionary that sat prominently on her coffee table. Joan held herself to the highest standard in everything she did, embodying discipline and perseverance. Long before it was trendy, she understood the importance of prioritizing her health and well-being. She was truly ahead of her time. With a dedication to fitness that never wavered, Joan rose at 4 a.m. every day to exercise, a routine she maintained until the very end of her life. A paragon of health, Joan believed that organic, healthy food without preservatives was the best medicine – and the only medicine that ever went into her body. Her love for fashion was also unmatched. At the ripe age of 90, Joan learned to use an iPad and defied all odds with her recent online purchase – a pair of three-inch heels. Eternal youth in body, mind, and spirit defined Joan’s journey. Fiercely independent, she embraced life with vigor and determination, facing each challenge with grace and resilience. Joan is preceded in death by her devoted husband Alvin, daughter Peggy Granoff, and son-in-law Paul Magaziner. She leaves behind her sister Bobbie Kraver, whom she spoke to every day; daughter Donna and son-in-law Steve Palmer, granddaughter Erika and husband Jed Mandel, great-grandchildren Jack, Max, and Sonny Mandel, and grandson Dustin Palmer; daughter Susan Magaziner, granddaughter Jordan Magaziner and husband Matthew Steinfeld, greatgrandchildren Sloane and Paxton Steinfeld, grandson Ryan Magaziner and wife Rachel Magaziner; son Mark and daughter-in-law Elaine Granoff and granddaughter Maya Granoff. Joan will be remembered for her strong moral compass, unwavering dedication to her principles, boundless curiosity, and indomitable spirit. Her legacy of strength, grace, and resilience will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those she touched. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, at 5:00 PM in the Gordon Chapel of Congregation Beth Israel, 5600 N Braeswood Blvd., Houston, TX 77096. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Congregation Beth Israel (https://www.beth-israel.org/giving/tribute-donations/) or Houston Hospice (https://www.houstonhospice.org/donate/).

Joan Granoff

August 26, 1929 - April 26, 2024