Joann Joy Smith

Joann Joy Smith was born on March 21, 1935, in Denver, CO. Everyone who met her knew that her life reflected the example of Jesus Christ. Although she did not grow up in a religious home, Joann experienced a profound moment of faith at just three years old. While visiting a Protestant church service with a family friend, she joined a children’s church lesson where the teacher invited the children to kneel and ask Jesus into their hearts. From that early age, Joann felt a deep connection to God, and this moment shaped her spiritual journey.

During her senior year of Catholic school, Joann felt a calling from God to dedicate her life as a nun. After completing a three-year discernment period through the Catholic Church, she officially took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience at the age of 21. She then embraced a life of service. Joann was also trained as an anesthesia nurse and served on Indian reservations as well as other areas in the Midwest.

After 15 years, Joann left the Catholic Church to pursue a personal relationship with God beyond her previous experiences. In 2009, she moved to Mobile, Alabama with her best friend, Joan Price-Williams, and joined Ashland Place United Methodist Church. At Ashland Place, Joann became a pillar of faith, serving as a dedicated prayer warrior for both the congregation and individuals.

In addition, Joann loved fishing, Alabama football, puzzles and coloring, collecting seashells, Braves baseball, art lessons, and watching old western movies. Despite facing medical setbacks in recent years, Joann remained resilient, optimistic, and grounded in her faith. Her last years were spent at Crowne Health Care, where she continued to live out her faith, extending kindness and hospitality to those around her.

Joann met Jesus on October 25, 2024. She will be remembered as a woman of unwavering faith, courage, compassion, and deep love for the church. Her life of service and prayer has left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Pine Crest West Cemetery (1599 Snow Road) on Thursday, October 31 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to The Joseph Project, the food pantry of APUMC where Joann devoted many years of service. Contributions can be sent to 15 Wisteria Ave, Mobile, AL 36607.