Miriam Joan Crossland Messer, 90, passed away on June 2, 2023 at her home in Gilbert, Arizona. Joan, as she was known by her family and friends, was born on November 11, 1932 in Lamesa, Texas, the daughter of Aaron Curtis Crossland Sr and Huldah Mae Crossland.
Joan moved with her family to Claypool, AZ in 1936 and then to Illinois in 1942. In 1950 she moved back to Ray, AZ where she graduated from Ray High School in 1951. Joan was a cook at the Ray Hospital for over 30 years before retiring in 1986. Joan married the love of her life, Calvin E. Messer, in July of 1958. Joan and Calvin remained in Kearny, AZ until moving to Chandler, AZ in 1991 to be closer to family. Calvin passed away in July 2005 leaving them just shy of celebrating 47 years of marriage on earth.
Joan was a dedicated and loving matriarchal figure to all her family and friends. Her arms and doors were always open for anyone. She welcomed everyone into her home and always treated them as family. Her love for life, heart of gold, and beautiful soul were cherished by everyone she encountered. Joan was always the life of any party and always relished being around her family. Her heart wasn’t full until she prepared you a delicious meal complete with dessert.
In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Calvin, daughter Delores, son Danny and her 3 brothers, Aaron Jr, Paul and Lloyd.
Joan is survived by her 2 daughters, Diana Stephens and Deborah Fields (Randy), 2 sons, David Messer (Vera) and Derrick Messer (Yvonne), 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 13 great great grandchildren, 1 sister, Glendora Rives, and many nieces and nephews.
The memorial service will be held at the Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7900 E. Main St, Mesa, AZ on Wednesday July 5th at 10:00am
What a beautiful spirit she was as is her son Derrick and his lovely wife Yvonne. May God continue to bless her family. Gwynn
Mom, you will always be a true gem, beautiful soul whose heart of gold was always in the right place. You taught us to love unconditionally and live life to the fullest. You always took great care of the entire family. You and Dad were the glue that held the family together in good times and bad. You will forever live in my heart. Give Dad, Danny and Delores a big hug. Love you until infinity, Your baby boy!
Rest in peace Joan, Thanks for being there as we grew up.. you will always be in our hearts..🌹❤
She had a heart of gold, Would never turn any of her children or their babies away !!!! So sorry for your loss!! Karla Crossland Fournier , Paul’s daughter
Mourning the passing of our Aunt Joan, who was so precious to us. And celebrating the wonderful full life she lived nurturing others and always loving her family with all of her heart. She brought joy to others that will never be forgotten. My Father Paul dearly loved his sister and I have no doubt they are talking, hugging and laughing in heaven! Sending a big hug to each of the family from my husband Charles and I. Remembering her comforting presence with a smile.
Her Loving Niece, Lisa
Dave, Vera and rest of the family our deepest condolences
So sorry for your loss. I remember my parents were good friends with Joan and Calvin. My parents were Fred and Joann Grigsby.🙏
The Fluharty, Warwick and Messer families had many a great picnic. Can still hear her booming laugh. Wonderful memories of a beautiful soul.
Sending my sympathies to the Messer family.
It sounds like Miriam lived a wonderful life and touched many souls. It made me remember the Dash Poem, “What matters is how we live and love, and how we spend our dash.” It sure shows her spirit remains within her family, Derrick and Yvonne. Hold each other close and cherish the good memories.