Barbara JoAnn Witherspoon

JoAnn, 73, died peacefully Tuesday, March 27th from complications in her battle with pulmonary fibrosis and after a happy, full, and inspirational life. She was born on September 13, 1938, in Charlotte, NC, the oldest child of John and Annie Moose. She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her granddaughter, Kristen Patrice Guy, of Charlotte.

Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Charles (Bud) Witherspoon, her five children, Butch Witherspoon, Cindy Groshon (Baron), Kim Guy (Phil), Dayna Eppley (Mike), and Mark Witherspoon (Missy). Also surviving are her twelve grandchildren: Philip, Matthew, and Derek Guy; Logan, Olivia, Adrian, and Rachel Eppley; Zach and Carly Groshon; Alex and Bryan Witherspoon; great grandchildren, Leighton and Lainey Guy. Other relatives include her siblings, Juanita Craig, Ruby Johannesen, John Moose, Jr., and Don Moose.

JoAnn attended Harding High School, owned and operated a local day care as a young adult, volunteered enthusiastically in the PTA, coached multiple youth sports teams over many years, taught Sunday school, Vacation Church School, and was involved in her church women’s group throughout her life. Her talents were many, which she expressed creatively through her artwork, sewing, gardening, and cooking..

Her life was devoted to her husband and family; and, she treasured their Sunday gatherings, beach trips, birthday celebrations, and was the biggest cheerleader at all the family sporting events. Love for her friends was a special joy, and she cherished their closeness and years of laughter and celebrations. She will be remembered for always putting others before herself. She was a wonderful example and inspiration of how to live life to the fullest, especially to her children and grandchildren.

Thanks to the many caregivers for their love and support during her long battle with pulmonary fibrosis, with special gratitude to Dr. Jay Hendler and Dr. William Larsen.

Her family will receive friends on Thursday, March 29th, from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at Forest Lawn West, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208. The funeral service will be held Friday, March 30th, at 11:00 a.m. at The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 110 S. Main Street, Mt. Holly, NC 28120.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd or the American Lung Association. 5315 Greenbrook Drive, Charlotte, NC 28205.

On-line condolences may be placed at www.forestlawnwest.com.