Joann Thomas

HENDERSON-JoAnn Thomas passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at The Ridge of Pikeville Memory Care Center in Pikeville, North Carolina. JoAnn was born on October 6, 1942, in Mitchell County, North Carolina. She graduated from Waynesville High School in Waynesville, North Carolina in 1960. She continued her education at Grace Hospital in Morganton, North Carolina, graduating as a Registered Nurse in 1963. JoAnn also attended Meredith College and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 1999. Upon graduation from nursing school, JoAnn served briefly as a nurse in the United States Air Force. JoAnn continued her career as a nurse in many different nursing specialties including hospital care, home health and hospice care. Prior to the onset of dementia, JoAnn enjoyed traveling, shopping, and meeting new people. She fought valiantly and courageously to preserve her independence until the very end of her life. The family wishes to thank the staff of The Ridge and also Gentiva Hospice for their care of JoAnn over the last two years. In particular, we are forever grateful to Catherine and Rachel of hospice who shared and supported JoAnn’s journey always with love and compassion. JoAnn is survived by her former husband and longtime companion, Nathan Fleming of the home. She is also survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Britt Wester, of Wake Forest, grandsons Alex Wester and wife Sandy of Jamestown, NC, and Ben Wester of Raleigh, NC, as well as great-grandson Nathaniel Wester of Jamestown. JoAnn’s daughter, Joy Fleming, preceded her in death. Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service for JoAnn on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Island Creek Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Johnny Yount, located at 950 Stagecoach Road, Henderson, North Carolina. A reception will be held in the fellowship hall following the service.