Joanne Webb Wilkinson's Obituary
Joanne Webb Wilkinson went to be with the Lord on January 27, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee. She was 89 years old. Joanne was born in Lexington, TN on June 29, 1934, to Joe L. and Edna Lee Webb who preceded her in death. Joanne was married to the love of her life, Charlie, for 67 years until his death, January 6, 2023.
Joanne went to Lexington High School where she was involved in student government and basketball. She went on to college at the University of Tennessee obtaining a degree with honors in medical technology. She helped lead Delta Delta Delta Sorority and was a cheerleader for the Volunteers football team. She cheered in the 1953 Cotton Bowl under head coach Robert Neyland. Joanne was also Sweetheart of Sigma Chi.
Joanne and her husband Charlie were introduced by General Bill Lefler at a social event. while Charlie was in dental school. She was working as a medical technologist at the medical unit in Memphis. She was head over all the research facilities at UTCHS and taught microbiology to the medical students. They were married soon after. Joanne and Charlie had three sons. Charles E. Wilkinson, Jr. (Vickie), Bradley Webb Wilkinson (Julia Beth), and Gregory T. Wilkinson (Cissy). She leaves behind all three sons, as well as many grandchildren. These include Danny Wilkinson; Lauren, Alex, and Molly Wilkinson; Crews Wilkinson and Rucker, Townes, and Elle Wilkinson. She also leaves behind 3 great grandchildren, Skylar and Jace Smith and Presley Porter.
Joanne was the epitome of grace. She was the sweetest most loving person anyone would ever want to meet. She put everyone else before herself and rarely complained about anything. She was busy raising three boys but managed to stay active and volunteer in many capacities. Joanne was a member of Christ Methodist Church where she was involved in the Kingswood Sunday School Class. She was an active member of the Memphis Dental Auxiliary and the LeBonheur Club. She and Charlie were members of the Memphis Wine and Food Society, and they enjoyed being members of the University club of Memphis.
Our Family would like to thank Elnoria Cole for her loving loyalty and faithfulness in caring for Joanne. Because of her loving and caring nature, Elnoria kept Joanne on this earth longer than expected. For that we are forever grateful. A visitation will be held on Sunday February 4th from 1:00-2:00 pm at Memorial Park with a service to follow. Donations can be made to the Church Health Center.
What’s your fondest memory of Joanne?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joanne?
Share a story where Joanne's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joanne you’ll never forget.
How did Joanne make you smile?