Joanna McFarling Williams

Palmetto Community- Joanna McFarling Williams, affectionately known as "Nanner," passed away unexpectedly at her home on January 20, 2025, at the age of 54. Born on August 16, 1970, in the Palmetto Community to Joe McFarling and Carol Witt; Joanna was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. A faithful member of Old Union Baptist Church, Joanna was known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. She spent over 20 years as a dedicated secretary at Shannon Primary, where her warmth and commitment made a lasting impact on both staff and students alike.

Joanna had a heart of gold, always generous with her time and kindness, making everyone around her feel valued. She found joy in quilting, crafting, cooking, traveling, and camping, always eager to create something beautiful or explore a new adventure. She was a true caretaker, always ready to lend a hand and make others feel loved. Her selflessness, caring nature, and joy for life will forever be remembered, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Joanna is survived by her husband of 33 years, Bruce Williams of Palmetto Community; one daughter, Anna Griffin and her husband, Lane, of Palmetto Community; one son, Joe Williams and his wife, Parker, of Palmetto community; one granddaughter, Ava Lynn Griffin; mother, Carol Witt; two sisters, Jennifer Kent and her husband, Jimmy, of Palmetto Community, and Jessica Cochran and her husband, Linsey, of Tupelo; and several nieces and nephews, Caleb Lovern and his wife, Krissy, Zoe Lovern, Ross Cochran, and Lucy Cochran. 

She is preceded in death by her father Joe McFarling; and her grandparents, Joyce and Leon Herring, and Roy and Louise McFarling.

Visitation will be 10 a.m. until service time Wednesday January 22, 2025, at Old Union Baptist Church. 

Services honoring Joanna’s life will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at Old Union Baptist Church with Brother Jay Parks officiating. Burial will be at Lee Memorial Park. Pegues Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.

Pallbearers will be Austin Wilson, Herschel Wilson, Caleb Lovern, Ross Cochran, and Ryan McGee.

Memorials may be made, in lieu of flowers, to Old Union Baptist Church, 113 CR 455, Shannon MS, 38868. 

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at PeguesFuneralHome.com.