Joan Champion

Annis Josaphine Champion, better known as Joan to her friends and colleagues, died at her home on March 25, 2011 after a valiant battle with lung cancer. She is survived by her brother, Thomas Jefferson Champion, Jr. and his wife Emily Feaster Champion of Cartersville, Georgia; her two nieces, Becky and Lila Champion of Cartersville; her long-time, very best friend, Jean Claire Griffin from Albany; and her beloved Boston Terrier, Kate, also from Albany. Joan was born on June 4, 1929, raised in Cartersville, GA and graduated from Rollins College with a degree in Medical Technology.
Joan's life revolved around her friends and family, her medical career and her sports. She made her parents very proud and was a wonderful support to her brother and sister-in-law. She was the BEST best friend that anyone could have. She was a spectacular, creative, vivacious aunt and the consummate medical professional. On the 16th tee at Doublegate Country Club where she broke the women's course record with a 69 she achieved what all golfers aspire to - a hole-in-one! Joan was a role model to all she met and will be missed more than she could ever imagine. Her dogs meant the world to her and no doubt, Nipper, Gus, Belle and Jill were there to greet her as she crossed the hill.
Joan had given much to the medical community through her career at Phoebe Putney Hospital and then the Hollis, Johnson, Guillebeau practice and the medical community returned her devotion many times over. Joan's family and friends will be forever grateful for quality treatment and kindness that has been provided by the medical professionals in Albany during the last few months.