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BORN
1935
DIED
2022
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Joan Lail Obituary
December 14, 1935 - May 19, 2022
Hickory journalist, Joan Gale Lail, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2022, at Givens Highland Farms, in Black Mountain.
Born Dec. 14, 1935, in Lenoir, she found her niche at age 14, by writing late night sports scores for the Lenoir News Topic. She advanced to columnist for the Charlotte Observer and business editor of the Hickory Daily Record, and freelance composer of letters, speeches, and ad copy for corporate leaders and dignitaries.
Joan spared the world some of its sorrows. Her humanitarian screeds could blister the ears of evildoers who hurt children or animals. Her gate was ever open to furry wayfarers, whether one-eyed, three-legged, aged, or pregnant. Into her 80s, she channeled a slim income into dog and cat necessities—special kibble, St. Christopher dog tags, and thunder shirts. Amid icons of the Holy Family and saints, she hung photos of her animal clan and drew dog portraits in pastels.
Memories of Joan's late parents, Dewey and Eula LaFone Lail; brothers, D.W. and Guy Lail; and sister, Louise Lail Pearson filled her thoughts.
Left to cherish her acts of grace are sons, Don Murphy and wife Sally, of Charlotte, Sam Murphy of Asheville; daughter, Dixie Haynes and husband, Tim, of Hickory; granddaughters, Larkin Murphy, Emily Murphy, Anna Murphy, Heather Grier; great-grandchild, Leila Grier; special friends, Sherry Brittain, Joyce Corbett, Mary Ellen Snodgrass, Carol Cartlidge, Phil Barringer; and beloved cat, Buddy.
A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, May 28, at Bass-Smith Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Joan's favorite causes, Humane Society of Catawba County;. or the Patrick Beaver Library.
www.bass-smithfuneralhome.com
Memories and Condolences
for Joan Lail
Sponsored by Bass-Smith Funeral Home and Crematory - Hickory.
1 Entry
Jim Powell
May 27, 2022
I was so sad to learn of your loss. Joan was a very unique lady who always treated me with very well, and always made me feel welcome when I was in her home. I always respected her and I pray for the comfort of all the family. God bless you all.
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Bass-Smith Funeral Home and Crematory - Hickory334 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC 28601
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