Always with love in her heart, laughter in her breath, and an undeniable Brooklyn accent in her voice, Joanne Seccafico Willey, was a devout Catholic who brought joy to those who encompassed her world. Surrounded by family, Joanne passed peacefully on May 17, 2026 in Wichita, Kansas. She was seventy-four.

Born in Brooklyn, NY on May 9, 1952, to Isabel (née Vecchio) and Joseph Seccafico, Joanne and her family moved to Bay Shore, NY in 1966 after she completed grammar school. Upon graduating from high school in 1970, Joanne ventured out on her own to attend college in Kansas, a place that ultimately captured her heart and became her lifelong home.

During her high school days at St. John the Baptist DHS in West Islip, NY, Joanne could often be seen cruising in her black Riviera accompanied by friends, with music blaring from her 8-Track stereo, and a picture of Frank Sinatra planted firmly on the dash.  Her days at Marymount College in Salina, Kansas, were marked by abundant, fun escapades with her friends, and frequent visits to the Village Gate for pizza, beer, and lots of laughs. It is there she met Fred, the man who stole her heart and who she married on December 3, 1976.

Later in life, Joanne returned to school to pursue her degree in nursing. As a nurse, she embodied compassion and selflessness, dedicating herself to what she did best: caring for and helping others in their times of need. Yet, her truest passion and greatest legacy were found at home. As a mother and grandmother, she embraced the roles she was born to fulfill, showering her family with boundless love. Her love language was nourishment for both the soul and body. Her home was a haven where the aroma of something wonderful was always drifting from the stove, and there was always room at the table for anyone who wanted to pull up a chair. Whether she was playing bingo or welcoming you to sit and eat, she filled moments with memorable warmth, laughter, and boundless affection.

Joanne is survived by her spouse of almost 50 years, Fred Willey and their children: Aaron Willey (Lindsey), and their child, Autumn; Adrienne Willey, and her children, Natalia, Tianna, Joseph, Adam, and Anthony; Ariane Stark (Chris), and their children, Hunter and Cassandra; Andrea Halcomb (Brian), and their children, Gavin, Maia, and Goran; and Joanne and Fred's bonus grandson, Canyon. Joanne also leaves behind her older brother, Pat Seccafico (Linda), their three sons and families, numerous cousins, and an abundance of faithful friends.

Friends and family are invited to honor Joanne's life with a Funeral Mass on Saturday, June 20th , at 10 am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, located at 861 N Socora St, Wichita, KS. A livestream link will be available for those who cannot attend in person by selecting the "Live Stream" tab on the website: https://www.stfranciswichita.com. Following the Mass, a procession will travel to Resurrection Cemetery, located at 1640 N Maize Rd, Wichita, KS, for the interment. Afterward, all are warmly welcome to join the family for a Celebration of Life in the church hall to break bread and share memories.

Joanne's passing was an unexpected loss that left an incalculable void. In lieu of flowers, or for those wishing to support the family during this difficult transition, a memorial and care fund has been established. Contributions can be made at https://gofund.me/9e5544c05 to help the family navigate the days ahead and maintain essential household commitments. If you are in a position to contribute, or just to share this page, any support is profoundly appreciated.