JoAnn Irvin Henry

Augusta, GA – Entered into rest on Friday, September 27, 2024, Mrs. JoAnn Irvin Henry, 88.

Family members include her children: Anthony Henry, Viola Marie Henry and Esther Michelle Bullock (Andre); grandchildren: Rashee Henry, Aisha Mangrum, Jasmine Shelby, Ashley Downer, Destiney Shelby, Erica Mitchell, Antonio Mitchell and Marcus Henry and 22 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents A.T. and Johanna Irvin Cole and her brother Norman Irvin. 

JoAnn was born on January 12, 1936, in Memphis, TN. She moved to Chicago, IL at the age of ten with her mom. JoAnn retired from the Chicago Board of Education as a custodian after 30 years of service. In 2023 she re-located to Evans, GA with her daughter and son-in-law (Esther Michelle and Andre). 

JoAnn enjoyed hosting family Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Her caramel pound cake was a huge favorite amongst family and friends. JoAnn believed that no matter what position or status you have in life; that is your duty to always help others. JoAnn loved and cared for us all. She poured into us all in her own special way. While JoAnn loved us, she had an even greater love. His name is Jesus. When she first got turned onto the Lord she served on the Usher Board at her church, St. Paul CME in Chicago. JoAnn understood Ephesians 3:18; there is no beginning or ending to God and His wisdom and knowledge. She wanted more, a deeper and more intimate relationship with the Lord. In 2016 she started attending Charis Bible Studies to help her along that path. She was in attendance every Saturday via in person or Zoom: YES! JoAnn learned how to finagle the Zoom App; and she never missed Sunday Discipleship class at her new home church; Eleven Sixteen in Georgia. JoAnn is a disciple of Christ; she continued in His word (John 8:31). Christ was and is forevermore her first love. Her loving Christ more is how she was able to love us. JoAnn knew the Truth and she is now free indeed. 

A memorial service celebrating the life of JoAnn will be Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Paul C.M.E. Church, 4644 South Dearborn, Chicago, Illinois 60609 with Rev. Dr. Curlee Adams officiating, Repast will be following the service in St. Paul's Banquet Hall.

Mom, we love you and we will miss your being here with us. See you later. "By this all people will know you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:35 (ESV)