EASTON, Md. — Joanne North, retired senior vice president of Decorating Den Interiors, died Jan. 20 after a long battle with breast cancer. She was 66.
North joined Decorating Den Interiors in 1977 when the company was less than 10 years old and primarily a drapery business. “She was instrumental in assisting my father (James S. Bugg Sr.) evaluate the company and decide to become involved and eventually sole owner,” said James S. Bugg Jr., company CEO and president.
North has owned and operated a franchise, served as a regional director and a divisional manager, has been responsible for merchandising and supplier relationships, and has developed many training programs, particularly with business planning and growing profitability.
“Joanne has played a significant leadership role in guiding and mentoring our franchise partners to understand that building a successful interior design business requires much more than talent and creativity in design,” Bugg said, adding, “She helped hundreds of women achieve their dream of having their own interior design business.”
North resided in Noblesville, Ind. She is survived by her husband, Jerry, a daughter and son-in-law, two grandsons and her brother.
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