Annie Joy Heart

Annie Joy Heart, born Jewel Anne Watson on November 19th, 1947, in St. Joseph, Missouri, peacefully passed away on May 4th, 2026, in Wild Rose, Wisconsin. Her journey through life was marked by a deep devotion to family, a soulful commitment to service, and a creative spirit that touched all who knew her.

Annie’s early years were shaped by the love of her parents, Charles and Betty Watson, and alongside her brothers Rick, James, and Perry. Though Charles, Betty, Rick, and her beloved spouse, John Petrush, have preceded her in death, Annie’s enduring legacy lives vibrantly through her daughters Rhonda Henry, Susan Bigler, and Janet Gardner, as well as her stepdaughter Jodi Rennie. Her heart was further enriched by love of her grandchildren: Jessica, Sarah, Justin, Violet, Abby, Isabelle, and August, who will carry her memory forward in their lives.

Her educational journey was a testament to Annie’s compassionate soul. While earning a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA), she pursued advanced studies earning two Master’s degrees—one in Peace with Justice Studies, Pastoral Care and Counseling from the Iliff School of Theology, and another from Vermont College of Norwich University. These achievements reflected her profound dedication to understanding the human condition and bringing comfort to those in need.

Annie’s professional life was as multifaceted as her education. Beginning as a bookkeeper at her husband's business, John Petrush Certified Public Accountant in Tucson, Arizona, she later channeled her energies into a cause close to her heart. As the Director of Family Promise in Hillsboro, Oregon, Annie worked tirelessly to aid homeless families, providing essential resources and striving to establish stable housing. Through this work, she embodied kindness and hope.

Creativity flowed naturally through Annie as she was an accomplished poet, her words gracing numerous published collections.  Her love for writing intertwined with her passions for sewing, music, and gardening. In the early years, she was a devoted mother. She orchestrated many adventurous camping trips with her husband and daughters. 

Annie’s personality was deeply influenced by the peaceful beauty of nature. She found inspiration along the Pacific Coast, having made her home in places such as Monterey Bay, Berkeley, and Portland, Oregon. She cherished moments she shared with her family like surprising grandchildren with holiday treats, planting flowers each Mother’s Day, and enjoying walks on the beach collecting treasures and seashells. The glow of sunsets and the warmth of campfires with s’mores were among her favorite experiences, creating lasting memories rooted togetherness.

In Annie Joy Heart, we celebrate a life lived with compassion, creativity, and love. Her spirit, like the treasures she collected on beach walks, remains a precious gift to all who knew her. She leaves behind a beautiful family.

Private services will be held at a later date.