Jo Anne Whitehead

Jo Anne Booth Whitehead, beloved wife of Lyman Whitehead and cherished daughter of the late Downey and Ruby Booth of Durham, NC, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026. Born on September 20, 1936, Jo Anne lived a life full of dedication to her family, faith, and community.

A graduate of Bethesda High School, she furthered her education at East Carolina University and the University of South Carolina. Jo Anne was a devoted member of Union United Methodist Church in Irmo, SC, where she served in numerous capacities including Sunday School and Bible School teacher, member of the Pulpit Committee, Deaconess, and charter member of the John Rowland Sunday School Class. She shared her love of music through her participation in the Spirited Singers and other choirs. Her commitment to her church extended to serving on the building committee for 15 years and involvement in many church ministries including Evangelism, Church and Society, Lay Leader, Staff Parish, Trustee, Administrative Board, Wilson Circle, Membership, and Nominations. She was also a trained Stephen Minister and an avid student of Bible Studies.

Beyond her spiritual contributions, Jo Anne was an active civic leader, deeply involved in the schools her four children attended and serving as President of the Irmo Optimist Club. She was engaged in the Republican Party, attending several National Conventions, and served five years on the Human Affairs Commission. Her dedication to public service included eight years as a lay member of the South Carolina Board of Dentistry. Jo Anne was a charter and life member of The Carolinian Society and the Coldstream Garden Club, as well as a member of Women in Rural Electrification (WIRE) at Mid Carolina Electric Coop.

Jo Anne’s love for family was evident in every aspect of her life. She is survived by her husband Lyman, daughter Amy Jo Jacobson (Tim), sons Jeff (Beth) and Sam (Melinda), and Chris (Carolyn Whitehead) and their families, five grandchildren Ash Jacobson, Carly and Paige Ashworth, Aaron (Amanda), and Shae (Jason Elves), two great-grandchildren, Rosie and Jasper Elves, many nieces and nephews. Other family includes Chris and Carolyn Whitehead and Carol Whitehead. She was predeceased by her brother Judd Booth, her sister-in-law Theda Booth, her brothers-in-law Edwyn and Cecil Whitehead, and daughter Mary Rebecca Whitehead. She also leaves behind many friends who were touched by her kindness and spirit.

A lover of nature and animals, Jo Anne embraced each day as a new page in her life’s story. Her legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In Lieu of Flowers memorials may be made to Sharing God's Love P.O. Box 1021 Irmo SC 29063 or Union United Methodist Church Building Fund PO Box 705 Irmo, SC 29063.

Friends and family are welcome to attend the memorial service that will be held to celebrate Jo Anne’s life on July 1st beginning at 11:00 AM At Union United Methodist Church in Irmo, SC.