Johanna Elizabeth Espelage

Johanna Elizabeth Espelage found heaven on March 28, 2026. Born on December 18, 1935, in Falkenberg, Germany, Johanna spent her childhood living on a farm alongside her parents and seven siblings. At the age of 22, she left Germany to begin her new life in America. Soon after arriving, she met the love of her life, her husband of 62 years, Paul Espelage. While their time together on earth has ended, their eternity together has just begun.
Johanna was deeply devoted to her family. She raised her two children with love, creating lasting memories through family vacations, unwavering support, and the quiet wisdom she shared so generously. Her care extended beyond her family to her friends and her beloved pets, all of whom she nurtured with the same compassion.
Johanna could be found each day walking the different trails at Green Hill Park. The paths she traveled reflected the perseverance and strength that defined her life. After living in Cincinnati, Ohio; Ames, Iowa; and Schenectady, New York, Johanna, and her family eventually made their home in Salem, Virginia. She earned her associate's degree in business and worked in finance, serving as a credit union manager at Stuart McGuire and CHRV Federal Credit Union.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Anthonius von Höfen and Johanna Buschermohle; her husband, Paul Espelage; and her sisters, Gertrud von Lewen and Maria Thole; and her brothers, Bernhard von Höfen, Leo von Höfen, and Otto von Höfen; as well as many beloved dogs and cats.
She is survived by her son, Tony Espelage (Dawn); her daughter, Janette Espelage (Teresa Beckner); her granddaughter, Tela Espelage; her sisters, Veronica Baranowski and Hannelore Pieper; and her cherished furry companion, Pepper.
Johanna was deeply involved in her church, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, where she lovingly prepared meals to help feed those experiencing homelessness. She enjoyed attending concerts with friends at the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and cherished playing bridge, as well as being a member of the Newcomers Club. Johanna's generosity touched many, as she supported numerous charities dedicated to fighting childhood cancer, heart disease, rescuing animals, and caring for children in need.
Even in her final days, Johanna never stopped walking. We will continue to carry the beautiful blessing of her love and hope that our own footsteps will mirror hers.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice House or Madonna House.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being a part of Johanna's life.
Online condolences may be expressed to the Espelage family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.