Joann D James age 81 passed away unexpectly on the morning of March 20, 2023 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Joann was born in Trinidad, Colorado on Jan 3, 1942 to Joe and Theresa Rivera. She attended Trinidad High School and after completing her schooling she went to work at Mt San Rafael Hospital in Trinidad, Colorado, transferring to Penrose Hospital in 1968. Joann was united in marriage to John R James on September 1969 at the Holy Trinity Church in Trinidad, Colorado. They were married for 54 years.

During that time she was employed at Penrose Hospital, Health South Rehabiration, and Springs Nursing Home. Joann loved to go camping in their RV, fishing with her husband visiting all the wonderful spots in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. Many trips were taken as they enjoyed their adventures. She loved going to Cripple Creek, Laughlin and Reno Nevada. She especially enjoyed attending the New Mexico music concerts held in the New Mexico area.

Joann was full of energy and lived her life to the fullest, Her spirit will stay with those who knew her forever. Preceding her in death are her parents Joe and Theresa Rivera, Gilbert and Manuel Rivers (brothers). Joann is survived by her husband John R James (Colorado Springs), Richard Rivera and family (Pueblo) Anna Rivera (Colorado Springs) and Mark Rivera (Trinidad) and numerous nieces and nephews. Special mention to Leonard and Becky James, Steve and Peggy James, Randy James, Tim and Genevieve James, Charles Chacon and Bernadette Burnelli, Kathy James and Terry Timmons, along with Al and Shirley Hardersen from Yorkville Ill.

Funeral Services will be held on April 12, 2023 at 12:30 pm with a Rosary and a Funeral Mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Church followed by interment at the Trinidad Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of The Comi Funeral Home.