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WINTON – Jo Ann Smith Godwin, wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the age of 72.

She was born on December 16, 1950, in Winton, North Carolina to the late Joseph D. and Dollie Blowe Smith. Jo Ann led a fulfilling life dedicated to her family and various pursuits. She began her careers at General Electric and the Roanoke Chowan News Herald, and later enjoyed her role as a homemaker. Her hard work and dedication were evident throughout her life.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jo Ann had a deep passion for breeding dogs, particularly Shelties and German Shepherds. She found great joy in raising these animals and nurturing them with love and care. Additionally, Jo Ann had a keen interest in Day Lilies and took pleasure in cultivating and admiring their beauty.

Along with her parents, Jo Ann is predeceased by a niece, Amy Kinsey Rima.

Jo Ann is survived by her husband, Buddy, and her cherished daughter, Candice Megan Godwin of Winton. She leaves behind two adoring granddaughters, Ava Rayne Harris and Amira Ember Taylor. Jo Ann will be forever missed by her three sisters: Donna Hughes of Winton, Bonnie C. Scott (Robert) of De Funiak Springs, FL, and Lorrie S. Barnes (Tim) of Murfreesboro. Her nieces and nephews, Melanie Holloman Smith, Brittany Barnes Powell, and Thomas Benji Lynn III, mourn her loss deeply. Jo Ann’s extended family, including great nieces, great nephews, great-great nephews, and great-great nieces, Rhianna Rima Graves, Ashley Rima, Cody Rima, Cheyenne Smith, Carter Lynn, Hensleigh Powell, Arkham Lynn, James Graves, and Finn Graves, will always cherish the memories they shared together.

Services to honor Jo Ann’s life will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023. Visitation will take place from 10-10:45 a.m. at Garrett Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie, NC. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the same location. Burial will follow at Winton Baptist Church Cemetery.

Jo Ann Smith Godwin will be remembered as a kind-hearted individual who enriched the lives of those around her. Her warmth, love, and dedication to her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May she rest in eternal peace.

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Godwin family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.