Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Joni Nuttall-Stokes

Rita Joan Borg Nuttall-Stokes, known affectionately as Joni, passed away peacefully at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich legacy marked by music, love, and community service. Born in 1933 on a farm near Victor, Iowa, Joni’s early life was defined by the challenges of rural living, which she humorously recounted, saying, “Every time a friend would visit, a chicken would lose its head.”

Her passion for music blossomed during long winter evenings, leading to a scholarship in piano performance at the State University of Iowa. Joni’s talent was not limited to music; she also captured attention as the runner-up in the Miss University of Iowa beauty pageant in 1952.

First Steps into the Professional World

Joni’s career began in a small-town bank in Victor, where she met her future husband, Clyde Raymond Nuttall, a veteran of the Korean War. Drawn by ambitions beyond their hometown, the couple relocated to California, where Joni earned her wings as a flight attendant with United Airlines in 1955. This role allowed her to travel extensively and ignited a lifelong love for exploration.

The couple settled in Los Gatos, California, where they opened Oakwood Pharmacy. Joni became an influential figure in the community, known for her makeup expertise and fashion sense, attracting clients such as Shirley Temple Black. Her involvement in local clubs emphasized health and personal hygiene among youth, reflecting her commitment to community wellness.

Music remained a cornerstone of Joni’s life. She not only played the piano but also contributed as a rehearsal pianist in local theater productions and served on the board of the Santa Cruz Symphony after moving to Aptos. Joni’s musical talent provided solace during difficult times, including the tragic loss of her son Stanton and her husband Ray’s battle with cancer.

New Beginnings and Global Adventures

Following Ray’s passing, Joni found love again with Graham Stokes, whom she married at the Bay View Hotel on June 26, 1999. Together, they embarked on global adventures, embracing every opportunity to connect with music around the world. Joni often remarked, “It has 88 keys, right?” showcasing her ability to adapt and find joy in music wherever she went.

Her talents extended to church music, where she frequently stepped in as a pianist or organist. Joni and Graham also actively participated in Rotary Club events and the Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, further solidifying their commitment to community service.

As she approached her 90th birthday, Joni faced significant health challenges, including a stroke that affected her mobility and her ability to play the piano. Despite these struggles, her spirit remained resilient, and she continued to inspire those around her.

Joni passed away quietly, gazing at the sky, leaving behind her husband Graham, two sons, Scott and Stuart, daughter-in-law Debbi Bohnet-Nuttall, and grandchildren Lauren and Calvin.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on March 7, 2026, at Christ Lutheran Church in Aptos, California. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Joni’s memory may consider planting a living memorial in her name.

Joni Nuttall-Stokes’ life was a tapestry of music, love, and community service, and her legacy will continue to resonate throughout the lives she touched.