Lily Joan Pettyjohn Means

Lily Joan Pettyjohn Means, age 90, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by her family. Joan’s life was a beautiful example of faith, service, and love for family.

She married her eternal companion, Phil Means, on April 16, 1955, in Phoenix, Arizona, and they were later sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple on April 20, 1961. Together they celebrated 70 years of marriage, raising five children and creating a home filled with warmth, music, and laughter.

Joan lived her life in devoted service to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in Relief Society presidencies, Young Women leadership, and worked with Boy Scouts, but her favorite calling of all was as a seminary teacher, where she shared her strong testimony and love of the gospel with youth. Her faith was unwavering, and she lived that testimony every day.

She was the epitome of a homemaker—cooking, caring for her home, and sending her sweetheart off to work. Joan raised generations of children and always had a pot of beans or a tray of enchiladas ready for anyone who might stop by. She loved music and often sang to her children and grandchildren around the house, filling their lives with melody and joy.

Joan is preceded in death by her eternal companion, Philip Means, and her son Philip Val Means. She is survived by her children: Linda Helen Miller (Scott Miller), Daryl Von Means (James Johnson), Terryl Van Means, and Geoffrey Vern Means (Lindsay Higbee); as well as 49 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Viewing Service
Friday, January 30, 2026, 7:00–8:00 p.m.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
745 N Val Vista Dr, Mesa, AZ 85205

Funeral Service

Saturday, January 31, 2026, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Same location as above.

Graveside Service
Following the funeral at
Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens
4310 E Southern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.