Jo Ann Powell

Jo Ann Powell
July 21, 1942-November 21, 2025

Born Jo Ann Hembree and raised in Blue Ridge, Georgia, Jo Ann was the daughter of Reid and Helen Hembree and big sister to four younger brothers. She graduated from West Fannin High School, participated in school activities like cheerleading, and worked at the local drug store after school.

After graduating from high school, Jo Ann moved to Atlanta and attended business college. She began a 37-year career with the federal government in 1961. Jo Ann worked with several government agencies before transferring to GSA in 1970, where she spent the majority of her career. When she retired in January 2003, she was a Building Management Specialist with the Property Management Division. Her co-workers said, “She is without a doubt the best at what she does. She is known for doing whatever it takes to get the job done, finding solutions to problems, and going the extra mile in helping others.” Her excellent service was recognized by multiple awards throughout her career.

In retirement, Jo Ann lived in Cumming, Georgia and was a member of the Grace Chapel Church of Christ. She never met a stranger and was known for her hospitality and generosity. When she was in good health, she was the host of all major family celebrations. She leaves behind her husband, Eddie, who gave her exceptional care in her final years; daughter and son-in-law Lisa and Alan Carver; son and daughter-in-law Mark and Debbie Powell; step-daughter Sandy; six grandchildren Kristen Pellow and her husband Alex, Haley Pittman and her husband Sean, Nastassia Barber, Audrey Powell, Mercer Powell, and Reed Powell; and three great-grandchildren (with two on the way).

Jo Ann is one-of-a-kind and will be greatly missed. In times like this, her family is grateful for the love and support of family and friends, the comfort of God’s presence, and the hope we have in the resurrection of Jesus.

We invite you to join us as we celebrate the remarkable life of Jo Ann Powell. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 5:00 pm at the McDonald & Son Funeral Home, located at 150 Sawnee Drive, Cumming, Georgia, 30040. An additional visitation will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 10:00 am at the Macedonia Church of Christ, located at 20 Bearden Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia, 30513. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the same venue. This will be followed by a graveside service at 12:00 pm.