Verbie "Jo" Hooten age 86 of McDonough, GA, passed away Tuesday, September 29, 2020. Verbie Jo was born just outside of McDonough on October 17, 1933. She was a retired clerk from the McDonough Post Office, where she served the community with a warm smile and was always willing to offer a little extra help to anyone who needed it. She also operated an antique store behind the McDonough square for many years and was well known for driving a hard bargain at area yard and estate sales. After retirement, she kept herself busy doting on those she loved, telling the best stories, working the soil of her garden, watching the birds and spoiling her cats. She also made countless pans of perfect buttermilk biscuits. Verbie Jo was preceded in death by her husband W. J. Hooten; her parents, Eunice Branan Lackey and Johnny Edward Lackey; and her brother John Edward "Bubba" Lackey. She is survived by her daughter Gayle Johnson; her son Mike Hooten; her grandson, Jeremy Johnson; her great grandchildren, Ruby Vaughn and Violet Johnson; and her dear friend and caregiver Penney Balmes, who brought her much comfort, joy, and laughter and many tomato sandwiches in her final months. Verbie Jo will be laid to rest at 10:00 AM Saturday, October 3, 2020 after a simple graveside service at Eastlawn Memorial Park, officiated by Rev. James Miller. Haisten Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
