IRIS "JOAN" HUNTER, nee Davies, 81, of Cahokia, Illinois, born January 26, 1936, in St. Austell, County of Cornwall, England, passed away on February 1, 2017 at Mercy Care Center, Swansea, Illinois, following an extended illness.

Joanie lived a varied and colorful life. Born in Cornwall, England where she was raised, she came to the United States in 1967, however, she did not give in and become a citizen of the U.S.A. until May 29, 1998. She eventually settled in Cahokia with the love of her life, David Hunter, and a big mess of animals. After waitressing at various locations she and Dave opened Joanie's Bait Shop on Falling Springs Road, which she ran until Dave's death in 1998. She spent the next years working for WalMart in the snack bar. Her gift for gab and openness made her a friend to many.

Besides her husband, David Hunter, she was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, parents-in-law, Dutch and Alice Hunter, several brothers and sisters-in-law, and many cherished pets.

Surviving are her children, Chris Davies and Christine Ford, both of England, and Frank and Ronald Scott, both of Macon, GA; grandchildren; great grandchildren; and cousins. She also leaves to celebrate her life the Hunter Family, a special niece Margie, and her good friends, Cheryl and Ernie Sutton.

Friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at Braun Colonial Funeral Home, Cahokia, IL. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 noon with Rev. Richard Elam officiating. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Belleville, Illinois.