JoAnn Howard was born in Roberta, Georgia to the parents of the late Annie Louise Tennyson Howard and the late Albert Howard. She grew up and attended the public schools of Crawford County. She graduated with the class of 1971 from Crawford County High School.  Joann grew up in a Christian home that nurtured her to be a loving and kind individual. She would later go on to confess her love for Christ by joining the Bethel independence Church, it was the nucleus for the family and their spiritual upbringing.  JoAnn was always a productive woman one who had dreams and aspirations to make a difference, she find a place that she could make that difference by enlisting into the United States Army. She served faithfully during her tenure and earned a honorable discharge.

After returning home from her allotted time of service, she just couldn’t sit down she had to do something to maintain her sense of worth. She engaged herself with a talent she had as a Seamstress. 

A side from JoAnn vocation. She would find time enjoying reading and watching her westerns. Perry Mason along with his star stellar action as a lawyer was sure to draw JoAnn into the court case. JoAnn was a peaceful person who enjoyed her quiet and peaceful moments. Tranquility was very important to her. She would often be found cooking up her best dishes for herself and other family members. She was always very family oriented and found great peace when family would gather around. Her other favorite past time was catalogue shopping and as times advanced, she became an online shopaholic.

It is said that in each life some rain must fall. JoAnn life was filled with joy and happy moments, but her life was never without its rainy days. JoAnne walked out of her storm of life on February 23, 2026 while receiving care at Atrium Health Navicent Medical Center in Macon, Ga. where she gave it all up for a better life with the Lord.

JoAnn was proceeded in death by her siblings Emory Howard, Eddie Roger Howard, Randy Howard Sr. Lillie B Howard, Leona, Matthias, Emma Howard niece  Bennie R. Howard Walton, Deborah Edwards, Kiersten Howard, nephew Randy Howard Jr.

JoAnne is survived by her supporting family two sisters Evelyn Lucas, Yalanda Harvey, and two devoted nieces Pamala (Eric) Jones, Jacqueline (Keith) Colbert, who was her rock and devoted caregivers, a very very devoted Great-Nephew/Caregiver Antwon Solomon and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends who will love and Cherish her memory.