JoAnn Gentry Briner was called home to be with her Savior on October 27th, 2025, at the Hospice of Laramie in Laramie, Wyoming.

JoAnn was born on Halloween, 1947 - a feisty little redhead from Linton, Indiana - to proud parents Aaron and Lillian Gentry, following her father’s brave service in World War II. She was her mother’s “mini me,” the apple of her daddy’s eye, and was loved by everyone who came to know her.

A proud graduate of Linton-Stockton High School, Class of 1965, JoAnn followed in the footsteps of the women in her family by entering the medical field. After earning her degree from Indiana University, she became a Physical Therapist - a career that truly embodied her caring spirit. Helping others brought her great joy, whether it was guiding little ones as they took their first steps, easing the pain of seniors, or helping patients regain their independence. Her kindness, compassion, and “never give up” attitude touched countless lives over the years.

Family was the heart of JoAnn’s world. She became a mother for the first time in 1972 with the birth of her son, Todd. In 1980, she met the love of her life, William “Bill” Briner. After they married, the three of them made their home in Worthington, Indiana. In June of 1986, their family was complete with the arrival of their daughter, Sara.

JoAnn was a devoted and hands-on mom who poured her heart into her children’s lives. She was an active 4-H leader, proudly serving as the Greene County Cat Club leader for many years, and she loved being a “horse show mom.” She never missed an opportunity to cheer on her kids, lend a helping hand, or celebrate every milestone.

In 2007, JoAnn and Bill made the move to Wyoming to be closer to Sara and fully embraced the western lifestyle together.

JoAnn had a deep love for animals and was known to open her home and heart to many over the years — dogs, cats, ducks, chickens, and even a few geese. She will be greatly missed by her loyal Great Pyrenees, Molly; her beloved cats, Harley and Maggie; and her granddogs, Sadie and Chloe.

She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Bill Briner of Buford, Wyoming; her daughter Sara (Timothy) Boryla, also of Buford; her son Todd; brothers John (Lucielle) Gentry of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Tom (Marsha) Gentry of Linton, Indiana; and numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron and Lillian Gentry; her sister, Barbara Keller; and a stillborn daughter.

Per her wishes, JoAnn will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

If you wish to honor JoAnn, please consider donating to your local animal shelter or rescue organization in her memory.

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.”

— Ecclesiastes 3:1

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.welchcornett.com.