BALLSTON SPA –

JoAnn Elizabeth Bratge-Lockrow, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, friend, and devoted caretaker, passed away unexpectedly on February 12, 2026, surrounded by family and loved ones.

JoAnn Elizabeth Bratge was born on June 23, 1965, in Saratoga Springs, New York, and grew up in Schuylerville, New York, where she graduated from Schuylerville High School in 1983. She later earned her Associates Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from SUNY Delhi in 1985.

JoAnn was also a valued member of the Quaker Springs Fire Department Auxiliary in Schuylerville, NY for over 30 years, serving alongside her mom and sister.

After completing her education, JoAnn worked for several years managing the food services at Union College in Schenectady, NY. She later worked as a dispatcher for Technical Building Services (TBS) in Ballston Spa, NY. For the last 15 years, JoAnn dedicated her life to fulfilling her passion as a home health aide. She helped countless people throughout her career and was often called a “guardian angel” by those she cared for. JoAnn remained close with many of the families she worked with over the years, which she cherished tremendously. Most recently, she also worked part-time as a receptionist at Warren W. Fane, Inc in Troy, NY.

Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting JoAnn knew she was one of the sweetest, kindest, most generous and selfless souls one could ever meet. Her two children were her entire world and heart. When she wasn’t working, JoAnn enjoyed attending concerts at SPAC with friends and family, board game nights at her mom’s, going to drag shows, and spending time with her grand-dogs, as well as her children’s foster kids and foster dogs. Most of all, JoAnn loved having the sand between her toes at the beach with a fruity drink in hand.

JoAnn was predeceased by her father, Curtis J. Bratge (September 2, 1936 – February 7, 2009). Her memory will be kept alive by her two children, Marissa Lockrow and Alexis (Michael) Moore; her mother, Fayanne Bratge; her sister, Laurie (James) Vianna; nieces and nephews that she loved as her own: Michael (Joelene) Vianna and their two children, John and Henry; Samantha (Kenneth) Madigan; and Brandon Vianna. She is also survived by her grand-dogs: Skye, Groot, and Remi, who lovingly knew her as “Gam-Gam,” as well as many other cherished family members, friends, colleagues, and patients.

A special thank you to Laura Henry, Jonelle Bayer-Martin, (Coach) Ed Short, the Welcomes and Baylys, and all the staff at Warren W. Fane, Inc. for their constant love and support for the family during this difficult time.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 12-4 PM at the Saratoga Knights of Columbus Council #246, located at 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Guests are invited to come as they are - there is no need to dress up, and kindly avoid wearing black. Anyone wishing to share words or memories is encouraged to do so as we remember JoAnn exactly as she was.

JoAnn was a fierce advocate for marginalized communities and donated regularly to non-profits of various social causes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to two organizations that were very dear to her heart: Pride Center of the Capital Region, and Lucky Puppy Rescue of Argyle.

Pride Center of the Capital Region: https://capitalpridecenter.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate

Lucky Puppy Rescue of Argyle: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=Y683A6K2ZERLE

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com