July 2, 1971 – October 7, 2001

Joann attended Franklin High School and played several years on the National Championship soccer team under Gary Shrader.

She later attended Berry College in Rome, Georgia
and got her Masters at Vanderbilt University.

Joann's Dream Written in a Journal

“I want to live where nature is astonishing with waterfalls and a simple life.  I want to reach out and help others heal from physical, spiritual and emotional wounds.  Part of the practice is out west and mom is there too.  It is an education and wellness center for children to feel safe. There are as many animals as possible.  I want to continue growing and travel to places I have never seen.”

Joann went to Franklin High School, Berry College and Vanderbilt University.  Upon graduation as a Family Nurse Practitioner, she accepted a job with the National Health Corps to help the underserved medical resources in Blue Ridge and Ellijay, Georgia.  She helped over 3,000 patients with physical problems, emotional wounds and those that just needed a listening ear in two short years.   She lived in a beautiful cabin on top of the Cherry Log Mountain Community next to the Appalachian Trail.  One Sunday afternoon she met her death and transcended from an earthly angel to a heavenly angel at age 30.

Joann loved children, animals, best friends, her family, mountains, hiking trials and waterfalls.  She was a natural healer and teacher, bringing courage and love to everyone she met.  She was the most beautiful, caring, supportive and loving friend a mother could have.  She climbed the Grand Teton mountains in Wyoming many times with her mom and repelled the steep, rocky cliffs with the ease of an eagle.  She had a deep connection with people, nature, good friends, a loving God and most importantly with herself and her personal journey.  No challenge was too big.  She went to every measure demanded to make the world a better place. 

Truth was the foundation of her faith, courage and love.  She never doubted her journey.  Joann felt very strongly that children should always have a choice and believed that healing, power and the truth reside in nature more than any other place.  Once while taking a walk, she was attacked by 3 large dogs.  After coming home from the emergency room, she said, "Mom, I sure am glad those dogs got me.  There was a small child in a stroller further down the road."  There was sign in her office saying, "If you cannot pay for your services, let me know.  Joann"