JoAnn Wells Haley's Obituary
Jo Ann Wells Haley was born June 26, 1933, in Benton, Arkansas, the third of four children born to Jody and Birdie Wells. As a child she was eager to please her parents and teachers and was a diligent student. She excelled in math and graduated with honors from Benton High School. After completing high school and a season of government employment in Washington, D.C., she returned to Benton to marry Stanley Rhea Haley.
JoAnn’s exceptional math and organizational skills resulted in a successful bookkeeping and accounting career, which culminated in her twenty-five-year tenure at Rhodes College, where she managed the accounting department. After her “official” retirement from Rhodes, she continued to serve in a bookkeeping capacity in ministry and church environments for many years.
As much as she thrived in the work environment, her greatest satisfaction was related to her family, home, and church. While she might be known for her savory cooking, tasteful decorating, and classy dressing, she was just as proficient at baiting a hook and reciting football stats. (Go Hogs!)
Many friends and family are left to reflect on these sweet memories. JoAnn is survived by daughter Stephanie Haley Triplett (Buddy) of Alpharetta, Georgia and son Kevin Haley (Georgia Anne) of Eads, Tn. JoAnn, A.K.A. “Mama Jo,” “G Jo,” and “M.J.” will be sorely missed by grandchildren Leslianne Haley Newberry (Tyler) of Houston, Tx; Kristen Triplett Gideon (David) of Alpharetta, GA; and Hunter Haley of Memphis, Tn as well as great-grands Tori and Dove Gideon and Aevyn, Stone, and Banner Newberry.
JoAnn’s family would like to express their gratefulness to the staff of NHC, Somerville, TN, and Crossroads Hospice Care, Memphis, Nn, for the excellent care they have provided for her.
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