Joanna S. Kilburn

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Joanna Sue Kilburn, who left this world far too soon on August 22, 2025, in Floyds Knobs, Indiana. She was 39 years old.

Born on November 23, 1985, Joanna lived her life with boldness, laughter, and a heart that embraced everyone she met. She was a graduate of Floyd Central High School and Indiana University and a proud Federal Aviation Administration agent.  Joanna found true fulfillment in her work — a career that reflected her passion for safety, and service.

To know Joanna was to know love, laughter, and a touch of mischief. She did life BIG — unapologetically and joyfully. She had a gift for lighting up a room, throwing a great party, and making sure everyone had a plate of something delicious from her kitchen. Her sense of humor was quick and contagious; her hugs, legendary.

Joanna’s compassion extended to all living things. Whether it was rescuing animals, welcoming neighborhood kids like her own, or offering a kind word to a stranger, she made everyone feel seen and valued. Her home was always open — a safe haven filled with laughter, music, warmth, and usually several extra children running through the yard.

She adored fishing at the lake by the fire in the evening, especially with her beloved dad, Jim “Bubby”. Simple moments brought her immense joy and peace. But nothing compared to the love she had for her daughters, Josephine "Josie" and Amelia "Millie". They were the center of her universe, the brightest lights in her life, and the legacy she leaves behind.

Joanna is survived by her loving parents, Debbie and James "Jim" Payne; her precious daughters, their father, Patrick Kilburn; her brother, James “Bug” Payne (Jennie), her cherished nephew, Jasper Payne, her dear grandmother; Sue Payne. She also leaves behind a large circle of extended family, lifelong friends, colleagues, and countless others whose lives she touched with her radiant spirit.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Scott Funeral Home, 2515 Veterans Parkway, Jeffersonville, Indiana, 47130. A funeral service celebrating Joanna’s life will follow at 6:00 PM at the funeral home.

Though she is no longer with us in body, Joanna’s spirit will forever dance in the laughter of her children, the sparkle of the lake, the joy of a night filled with music and friends and the echo of her unforgettable laugh. She was larger than life — and will always be remembered that way.

In  lieu of flowers the family requests donation be made to The de Paul School for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and ADHD.

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