JoAnn Harbolt Treat was born on August 21, 1933, in Houston, Texas, to Mildred Rothmund Harbolt and Don Victor Harbolt. During her school years, she was a member of the Scottish Brigade dance group and sang in the choir at Christ Church Cathedral, where she met the love of her life, Victor Hugo Treat.

JoAnn and Victor married when she was 19 years old and began their life together in Austin, where Victor pursued his Ph.D. in History. JoAnn played an important role in supporting his academic work, typing his notes and dissertation. They welcomed their first son, William Jay Treat, and later moved to College Station when Victor joined the faculty of Texas A&M University. There they embraced all things maroon and were blessed with a second son, Victor “Huey” Treat.

In 1964, JoAnn joined the Texas A&M Research Foundation as a secretary. Through dedication, leadership, and hard work, she advanced within the organization and ultimately served as its president and CEO from 1985 until her retirement in 2003. She also served as president of the Society of Research Administrators, a professional organization.

JoAnn and Victor shared a passion for community involvement and service. Throughout the years, she held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including the Brazos Valley Symphony, Friends of the Symphony Orchestra (FASO), Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras (TASO), Coushatta Camellia Society, United Way, Junction 505, the Westerners, St Thomas Episcopal Church, and the Church of the Epiphany in Calvert, Texas. Through these organizations, she and Victor formed many lifelong friendships that enriched their lives.

Of all her accomplishments, JoAnn most cherished being “Grandma.” She delighted in her grandchildren, Stephanie and Diana Treat, daughters of Jay and Mary Treat, and Julian and Jackson Treat, sons of Huey and Ann Treat. Whether preparing her beloved 24 Days of Christmas countdown gifts or attending countless sporting events and activities, she devoted herself to her family with love and enthusiasm. JoAnn and Victor celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on June 6, 2023, a testament to their enduring love and partnership.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Victor; and her granddaughter, Stephanie. She is survived by her sons, William Jay Treat and wife Mary, and Victor “Huey” Treat and wife Ann; her grandchildren, Diana, Julian, and Jackson; and her nieces: Hellen Treat Balcar, Merci Brassfield, and Mary Lee Heath.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Shira Russell, Nikki Washington, and the caring staff of The Isle at Watercrest for their compassion, friendship, and dedicated care.

Visitation will be June 4th from 5-7 at Callaway Jones. Services will be Saturday June 6th at St. Thomas Episcopal Church at 1 pm with Graveside following at Aggie Field of Honor.