Springfield – JoAnn Howard, 78, passed away November 14, 2024.

She was born in Oliver, GA to Mary Kicklighter Howard and Waldo Alfonso Howard. She was the kindest, warmest and most big-hearted person you could ever meet. She loved her children unconditionally and sparkled like a star when being with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is deeply missed by all. Her laugh, her "dancing", listening to Elvis, her love for art, all her silly ways are how we will remember her. She is preceded in death by her son, Waldo "Alan" Brantley.

She is survived by two daughters, Angela Lane (Marty) and Wanda Hall (Deon); two sisters, Linda Banta of Pensacola, FL and Waldean Hall (Jerry) of  Augusta, GA; two nephews; seven grandchildren, John Hall (Krystle), Amber Lowry (Warren), Clay Hall (Harley), Keith Brantley (Ashleigh), Morgan Upchurch, Travis Brantley (Hailey), and Rachel Brantley; eleven great-grandchildren, Ally, Haidyn, Kinleigh, Deon, Jaxen, Westin (due December), Kaleb, Kason, Kyler, Kaden, and Karson.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor with family.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to an Alzheimer's Association in her memory.

"Mom, I will always look up and see you shining. You will be the brightest star in the sky. You always taught me nothing was out of reach. You taught me to be strong and I will always carry "your strength" with me. You were always there for me. A part of you will always be with me. Go fly high and soar the sky. You are and always will be my Angel, my best friend, my sunshine, but most of all, My Mom!"

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel, (912) 754-6421.