Joanne M. Taggart of Southampton passed away on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024 at Southampton Hospital. She was 81.

Born in Southampton on May 12, 1942, she was the daughter of Peter and Stephanie (Ryder) Danowski.  She was a graduate of Riverhead High School's Class of 1959, then received a Bachelor's Degree in Education from the State University of New York at Oneonta.

After growing up in Riverhead where her parents owned and operated Danowski Funeral Home,  she wed the love of her life John (Jack) Taggart on April 16, 1966. The couple then relocated to Southampton to raise a family. 

Ms. Taggart worked for several years as a teacher in the Rocky Point School District, and as a Substitute Teacher in the Southampton School District.

She enjoyed tennis, playing cards (especially with friends at Southampton Golf Club), shopping and spending lots of time with family and friends.

Beginning in the mid 1970's, Ms. Taggart began to experience health complications that ultimately led to her being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).  Since 1990, the symptoms of MS forced her to live the remainder of her life bound to a wheelchair.  However, with the continued love and care from her husband Jack, and with strength and determination all admired, Ms. Taggart had a blessed life.

Ms. Taggart is survived by her husband John (Jack) Taggart; children John P. Taggart (Lisa), and Jacqueline Smith (Gary); grandchildren Jaxson, and Addyson; and brother Peter Danowski, Jr (Susan).