Ms. Jolene Margaret Edwards

Jolene Margaret Edwards, 83, of Visalia, California, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, in Visalia, California. Jolene was born to Joseph Edwards and Margaret Schmidtke on April 19, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan. Jolene grew up in a loving home in Redford, Michigan, where she attended Lee M. Thurston High School, graduating on June 11, 1959. During her school years, Jolene was known for her vibrant personality and passion for learning. She enjoyed participating in school events and loved spending time with her close-knit group of friends. Jolene went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Michigan University, where she excelled academically and made lifelong friends. She married Jerry Stangis in Redford, MI, on July 8, 1961. Together, Jerry and Jolene created a beautiful family with their two children, Kathleen Ann Stangis, born on March 25, 1962, and Gregory Kenneth Stangis, born on May 5, 1968. Jolene was a devoted mother, and upon the untimely passing of Kathleen, she embraced the role of raising her grandchild, Christopher, as her own son with steadfast love and dedication. After receiving her college degree, Jolene dedicated over five decades to working in various roles within social work organizations, including the Salvation Army and Health and Human Services for Tulare and Fresno Counties. Her commitment to helping others extended to her consulting work with UC Berkeley and other institutions, where she used her expertise to make a significant impact. Jolene was also an accomplished artist, finding joy and expression in creating beautiful collages and watercolor paintings. Her art was a reflection of her keen eye for beauty and her creative spirit. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Jolene had a deep love for music, gardening, and physical fitness. One of the things Jolene was most proud of was her sobriety. On April 29, 2024, she celebrated 50 years clean and sober, a milestone that symbolized her strength and resilience. She was deeply involved in the local Alcoholics Anonymous program, sponsoring many individuals over the years and offering guidance and support to those on their own paths to recovery. Jolene's activism and commitment to social justice were evident throughout her life. She was a passionate advocate for various causes, always striving to make the world a better place for future generations. She is survived by two sons, Gregory Stangis (Kerry Kropa) and Christopher Edwards (Julie), and six grandchildren, Hannah Stangis, Gabrielle Stangis, Grace Edwards, Andrew Stangis, Natalie Stangis, and Carter Edwards. Jolene's legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Jolene had a profound impact on her community, family, and friends. Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who loved her. Visitation will be held 9-11am Monday, June 3rd, 2024 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia with a Service Of Remembrance to immediately follow at 11am. Internment will be held privately. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Ms. Jolene Margaret Edwards

April 19, 1941 - May 14, 2024