JoAnn Tumey

Born in Paris, France, and raised in Westport, Connecticut, JoAnn lived a life defined by quiet strength, deep compassion, and fierce love. A natural nurturer—nonjudgmental, grounded, generous, and steadfast—her warmth was a sanctuary to those around her, and her love never wavered.

After earning her MBA from Vanderbilt University, JoAnn built a successful career in business, including serving as business director at University School of Nashville while raising her children as a single mother. She later held roles in risk management and compliance at Marsh and Kroll. She was wickedly smart, sharp-witted, and intellectually curious—always reading, learning, and engaging deeply with the world around her.

JoAnn loved nature in all its forms—gardening, hiking, riding horses, and especially being near the ocean. She found joy and peace in snorkeling, and a deep sense of purpose in environmental and community causes. She gave back generously through her work with the Sierra Club, her church, and as USN’s yearbook teacher, where she helped students find their voice and creativity.

She is survived by her children, Zaz and Emerson; her grandchildren, Ashlynn and Dexter; her loyal dog, Bette; and her loving siblings: Barney Harrison (JoAnne), Barney Douglas (Lisa), Deborah (Richard), Linda (Steve), and Peggy (Bob). She was a cherished aunt to Rhett, Wyatt, Charlotte, Remington, Madison, Berlin, Michael, Ian, and Colin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kevin Hicks, and her brothers, Barney Alan and Barney Frederick.

JoAnn leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, humor, resilience, and deep love—for her family, her community, and the world she cared so deeply for.

A memorial service celebrating JoAnn’s life will be held on Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. at Belmont United Methodist Church in Nashville, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear floral, white, or black attire—a reflection of JoAnn’s elegance, warmth, and enduring light.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, feel free to donate to the Nashville ICO program in her memory by mailing a check to:

TN Chapter Sierra Club

PO Box 113

Powell, TN 37849

Tax-deductible checks must be made payable to "Sierra Club Foundation" and should include "JoAnn Tumey Memorial—Nashville ICO" on the memo line.