Joann Helen Buhlinger

Joann Helen (Cox) Buhlinger passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026 at the age of 90 in Bluffton, South Carolina surrounded by her family.

Born on January 9th 1936 in Detroit, Michigan, Joann was the daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Gearns) Cox. She devoted her professional life to nursing, serving both in the delivery room and in a nursing home, where she cared for children with a range of physical and developmental challenges. Her proudest titles included wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and she enjoyed spending time and making memories with family whenever possible. In addition to Detroit, Joann and her husband John lived in Warren, Michigan; Richmond, Michigan; six years in Georgia, and Joann the last five months in South Carolina. Joann and John’s most memorable adventures included cruising all five Great Lakes in their boat the “Joni Bee”, and visiting 49 states in their travel trailer. Joann is most remembered by her vibrant personality, contagious laugh, gentle heart, and relentless faith.

Joann is survived by her son James Buhlinger (Patricia), and daughter, Janet Bentley (Mark); six grandchildren, Michaela (Scheftic) Hadlock (Kevin), Kaitlyn Buhlinger, Daniel Buhlinger, Hannah Bentley, Jack Bentley, and Luke Bentley (Katherine Jane); and three great grandchildren, Norah, Jonah, and Luca Hadlock. Joann was predeceased by her husband of 65 years John Buhlinger, beloved daughter, Judy Scheftic (David); and siblings Patrick Cox and Kathleen (Cox) Vollbrecht.

A celebration of life for both Joann and John (deceased May 26th 2023) will be held in Michigan at a future date. In honor of Joann and in lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (Blood Cancer United).