JoAnn Christine Turretto born on June 23, 1962, to Phyllis (Thorson) and Gregory A. Turretto in Santa Clara, California, passed away on June 28, 2026, peacefully at Ida Emmerson Hospice House in Eureka, Calif.

JoAnn lived what she called “the most fun” life. It was filled with love, a little bit of chaos and lots of laughter.

Her father, Gregory A. Turretto, was a mechanic and engineer who built hot rods with his own two hands and taught her how to weld. Her mother, Phyllis Turretto, worked in elementary schools as a secretary.

JoAnn grew up with her father working on carnival rides in their backyard in Morgan Hill, being picked up from school in the coolest hot rods and other cars, spending time baking with her grandmother, and in her teenage/early adult years working many jobs she loved, going on many adventures, and making memories with friends and family. 

She attended Live Oak High School in Morgan Hill, Calif., where she graduated in 1980. 

She made many friends and memories in that time.

She married David S. Eldridge on March 20, 1999, and welcomed their first child, Isabella “Bella” Eldridge, in September 1999, followed by their second child, Hunter Eldridge, in July 2002. 

They moved to Rio Dell in 2005, where she made their house a true home, held many parties, welcomed many friends, and made every holiday magical (especially her favorite, Halloween). She spent her later years driving her beloved 50th edition Chevy Camaro, and spending time with her grandchildren, who gave her her most favorite name, “Gammie.” She spoiled and loved her grandbabies with all of her heart and soul. They were the light of her life, and her pride and joys.

JoAnn is preceded in death by parents Phyllis and Gregory A. Turretto; brother Gregory R. Turretto; uncle Edgar Thorson; grandmother Margaret Thorson; and other beloved grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

She is survived by husband David S. Eldridge; daughter Isabella “Bella” Rexford (Christopher Rexford); son Hunter Eldridge’ grandchildren Daniel Turretto-Rexford, Dean Turretto-Rexford, Ella-Ann Rexford, Brantely Turretto-Rexford, and Christopher “CJ” Rexford Jr.; and many loving cousins and friends.

JoAnn lived for her children and grandchildren, who love her more than life itself. She was blessed with such loving family and friends.

Turn on some ‘70s and ‘80s rock ‘n’ roll and remember her fondly and reminisce the times we had with her. She will be missed dearly.

The family would like to give a huge thanks to Hospice of Humboldt Ida Emmerson Hospice House staff for taking amazing care of her in her last few days, treating her with the utmost kindness and dignity. 

There are no memorial arrangements at this current moment, as family is taking their time to grieve. 

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of JoAnn Turretto’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.