“I’m an honorary doer. I think that’s a better title for me.”

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, Friday night, March 27, 2026, Joanne Bilbo, a lifelong resident of Antioch, was honored as the 2025 Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement in recognition of her unparalleled dedication to her community. At 96 years young, Joanne’s life is a shining example of volunteerism, leadership and service.

She joined the Catholic Young Ladies at age 16 and has been a devoted, long-standing member of Most Holy Rosary Church. Affectionately known as the “Dessert Lady,” Joanne has spent decades delighting parishioners with her famous bundt cakes at church events, always serving with joy and generosity.

Her commitment extends beyond the church: she has been a dedicated board member of the Antioch Historical Society, earned the affectionate title of “Ticket Lady” for managing museum event tickets for countless community events, and was honored in 2023 as a Community Leader by the Sports Legends Hall of Fame Museum, where she served on the board for more than a decade.

Joanne’s impact on Antioch reaches into every corner of the community. She and her husband, Marshall Bilbo, married in 1960 and raised two children while owning and operating Ernie’s Liquors for many years. She has been a vital presence in the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Antioch, contributing her time, energy, and leadership to countless initiatives.

As a board member of Antioch Friends of the Arts, she oversaw the purchase and dedication of the Cannery Lady statue on W. First Street in historic, downtown Rivertown, celebrating Antioch’s rich history and culture. In 2003, she joined a philanthropic organization dedicated to raising scholarships for women, further extending her impact on future generations. Through her decades of volunteerism, her warm presence, and her unwavering commitment to community, faith, and service, Joanne Bilbo has become a beloved and inspiring figure in Antioch—truly deserving of the title Citizen of the Year.

See video of Joanne’s speech during the Gala in which she said, “I’m an honorary doer. I think that’s a better title for me.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

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Joanne Bilbo applauded & honored 3-27-26

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