Joanne North, Retired Decorating Den Interiors Senior Executive Dies at 66

Furniture World News Desk on 2/1/2022

Decorating Den Interiors announced that Joanne North, retired Senior Vice President, died at age 66. “Joanne was a breast cancer survivor for 16 years after being diagnosed in 2005,” said James S. Bugg Jr, CEO and president. “She fought cancer on and off and was willing to try anything to beat the disease. Joanne was a dear friend and wonderful colleague.”

“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 added.  “She has developed national and local marketing strategies, taught owners how to do business planning, and been a constant cheerleader for increasing sales. She helped hundreds of women achieve their dream of having their own interior design business.  Most of all, she has been a true friend to our corporate staff, our franchise owners and their teams, and to our suppliers and business support partners.”

North joined Decorating Den Interiors in 1977 when the company was less than ten years old and was primarily a drapery business.  “She was instrumental in assisting my father evaluate the company and decide to become involved and eventually sole owner,” Bugg, Jr. said. (James S. Bugg, Sr. served as chairman from1984 until his death in 2015). 

North has owned and operated a franchise, served as a regional director, a divisional manager, and has been responsible for merchandising, supplier relationships, and has developed many training programs, particularly with business planning and growing profitability. 

North resided in Noblesville, Ind. She is survived by her husband Jerry, daughter Kristi Lantz, son-in-law, Matthew, grandsons Hudson and Griffin, and her brother Fritz. 

“I will never forget Joanne's favorite management motto: ‘People don't care how much you know unless they know how much you care’”, Bugg added. “Joanne lived those words every day of her life.”  

About Decorating Den Interiors

Founded in 1969, Decorating Den Interiors is North America’s largest interior design and home furnishings franchise company. Its nearly 300 franchisees operate throughout the U.S. and Canada. Its franchisees have direct relationships with suppliers in its LIVV Home Collection™ of fine furniture, custom window treatments, wall and floor coverings, accessories, lighting, and closet systems. For more information, visit  www.decoratingden.com.