Will County Gazette

JoAnn Dean Killingsworth died from cancer at her home in Brea, California, on June 20, 2015. She was 91. JoAnn, born in Minneapolis in 1923, was raised in Joliet, Illinois. She moved to Los Angeles in 1931 with her family during the Great Depression. JoAnn started ice skating at 15 and later transitioned to acting and dancing in films. She performed in over 100 movies, including "Sabrina" and "Lullaby of Broadway." On July 17, 1955, JoAnn became the first person to portray Snow White at Disneyland's opening. Her role as Snow White marked a significant moment in Disney history. Later in life, she moved to Newport Beach, where she published magazines and took up painting. Her connection to Joliet remained an important part of her early life. JoAnn’s life was a blend of ice skating, acting, and artistic pursuits. She is survived by her stepsons and her brother.