Joell Elizabeth (Cihon) Kardos, a cherished mother, sister, and friend, passed away at the age of 52 on October 2, 2024, in Steubenville, Ohio, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, on June 24, 1972, Joell's vibrant spirit and boundless energy enriched the lives of those around her.

Joell pursued her passion for helping others by earning her degree in Respiratory Therapy from Jefferson Technical College. Her dedication to her field was evident in her work as a Respiratory Therapist and later as a Clinical Specialist at Verathon. Joell's colleagues will remember her as a beacon of knowledge, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. Her commitment to her profession was matched only by her commitment to her family and friends.

A loving mother, Joell's greatest pride was her children - with the exception of her dog, Miya. Her son, Brock, and his wife, Erika, as well as her daughter, Molly, were the center of her universe. She instilled in them her values of love, kindness, and a zest for life. Joell's sense of humor and thoughtful nature were gifts she shared generously with her children, shaping their lives in countless ways.

Her sisters, Necole (Rick) Hritz and Tami (Ronald) Shumard, will miss Joell's infectious laughter and unwavering support. Joell's role as a sister was marked by moments of shared joy, understanding, and an unspoken bond that only siblings know. Together, they created a tapestry of memories that will continue to provide comfort and warmth to their families.

Joell's interests were as multifaceted as her personality. An avid cook, she enjoyed experimenting with new recipes and flavors, often bringing family and friends together over a lovingly prepared meal. Her flair for interior design was evident in her beautifully curated home, where each room told a story of her travels, experiences, and the people she loved.

Those who knew Joell would describe her as a loving, funny, and thoughtful person. Her ability to light up a room with her presence was unmatched, and her sense of humor brought joy to even the most mundane moments. Her thoughtfulness was felt in her attentive listening, her willingness to provide support, and her knack for remembering the little things that mattered to those around her.

Joell's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the beauty of everyday moments. Her impact on the world was as profound as it was gentle, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of those she touched. As we say goodbye to Joell, we celebrate her life and the countless ways she made our world a brighter, kinder place.

In honor of Joell's memory, let us hold our loved ones close, find laughter in the mundane, and approach each day with the same love and thoughtfulness that she exemplified. Joell Elizabeth Kardos will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by all fortunate enough to know her.

Joell is survived in death by her father, Carl (Debra) Cihon; her children, Brock (Erika) Kardos and Molly Kardos; three siblings, Tamara (Ronald) Shumard, Necole (Rick) Hritz, and Michael (Tonya) Cihon; four nieces and nephews, Bethany (Andrew) Hayes, Corey (Rachael) Shumard, Mason (Megan) Shumard, and Bretton (Tristan) Samples, nine great nieces and nephews, and loving cousins. She is preceded in death by her mother, Linda Spencer, and stepfather Richard Spencer.

Family and friends will be received Friday, October 4 from 11 AM to 1 PM at the J.E. Foster Funeral Home in Smithfield where Joell's service will commence at 1 PM. Scott Evans will officiate, and burial will follow in the New Alexandria Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be directed to Valley Hospice, www.valleyhospice.org, or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, www.pancan.org. Condolences may be offered thru our funeral home website, www.jefosterfh.com.