By Joanne Johnson
You were always quick with a joke
Always with impeccable timing
As you teased about what would come next
Foretelling the next line with a smirk
When you entered the room you announced
Having a story that would produce
A raucous and resounding laughter
To even the unhappiest souls
It was your signature that proceeded you
Everyone anticipating jocular entertainment
In a much too serious world
You were the life of the party
During your recent passing and memorial
We remembered your infectious laughter
As we wished for one more joke
Sadly this was your last punchline
Joanne Johnson is a Worcester, Massachusetts based poet whose work reflects the emotional texture of family, resilience and community life. Her collection An Imperfect Journey explores love, loss and personal growth with honesty and warmth. A feature reader at local literary venues and published in Worcester Magazine she brings a deeply personal, grounded voice to New England poetry.
Academy of the Heart And Mind 