Joan Leonore Cardoza

Joan L. "Joanie" Cardoza, age 72, passed away on May 27, 2026, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born on May 19, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, to Albert and Emma Velderrain, Joanie spent many years in Arizona before recently making her home in Princeton, Texas. She was the heart and matriarch of her family, a woman whose strength, resilience, determination, and unconditional love shaped generations. Her grit and perseverance were qualities she proudly passed on to her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Joanie is survived by her loving husband, Edward Cardoza; her daughters, Suzanna Austin and husband Danny, Carolyn Abeytia-Moody and husband Daniel Moody, Haley Cardoza, and Michelle Abeytia, whom she lovingly raised as her own daughter. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Leo, Alexis and husband Josiah, Darrian, Madeline, Madyson, William, and Carolyn; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Addalynn, Carter, and Arabella.

She is also survived by her brothers, Albert, Mark, and Glen Velderrain; her beloved sister by heart, Annette Coleman, and husband Frank; her cherished niece, Jeanie Velderrain; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Joanie absolutely adored her dogs, Gus, Jett "Gonessa," Romeo, and Macy. One of her favorite daily rituals was sharing her morning toast with them, a simple tradition that brought her joy and companionship each day.

A fierce and devoted woman, Joanie faced life's challenges with unwavering determination. She was known for speaking her mind, never backing down from what she believed, and expressing herself with honesty, humor, and a vocabulary that could make even a sailor blush. She remained true to herself until the very end.

Joanie's greatest legacy is the family she built, loved, and fiercely protected. Her strength, resilience, and grit live on in the generations that follow her. Her legacy is not only found in the family she leaves behind, but in the courage, loyalty, and perseverance she instilled in them.

Though she is no longer with us, Joanie's spirit remains a guiding force in the lives of all who loved her, and her memory will be treasured forever