Josephine Ann White

Today our hearts are filled with both a profound sense of loss and an even more profound sense of joy. Our dear sister, Josephine Ann "Jo Ann" White completed her race and stepped into the arms of her beloved Jesus on Monday, December 15, 2025. While we grieve the absence of her here with us, we celebrate with all of Heaven that she is finally fully home. Jo Ann didn't just pass away; she graduated to glory.

Jo Ann was born on March 30, 1950, to Albert and Ruby Blackburn. Her birth was the start of a journey whose destination was always fixed on her Savior. She was baptized for a second time in her late 50s as an act of obedience to have her baptism on the right side of her salvation.

Her life was a beautiful illustration of what it means to walk in purpose. Her job as a Head Start teacher did not define her, but her identity as a beloved child of God did. It led her to work with children not only in her professional life but also at church. She often talked of a mission trip she took to Alaska to work with children. She also journeyed to Guatemala, where she was deeply moved by the hunger she saw in the children. She also taught children in Sunday school and worked with the children of divorced parents. She was instrumental in starting a singles ministry at the former Highland Park Baptist Church, opening her home for fellowship, Bible study and meals. In her later years she served in the church library.

Both professionally and spiritually, she looked for those who were vulnerable and worked to make a difference in their lives. She reflected that our ultimate relationship is with Him, regardless of our relationships on Earth.

Jo Ann was one of those saints who never sought the spotlight but whose impact was immeasurable. She served at several churches through the years until health prevented her from attending in person. She understood that the Church isn't a building; it's a family on a mission. Her consistent, faithful service was the connective tissue that strengthened the church body. She lived the truth that the greatest ability is availability, always ready to serve whenever God called her.

She also loved His creation, enjoying spending time in the mountains, at the beach and especially gardening and growing flowers.

Jo Ann fought the good fight. She finished the race. She kept the faith. Now she has received her crown of righteousness. We believe that the best way to honor her is not by mourning her absence but by imitating her faith. Let us serve as she served, love as she loved and live with the same eternal perspective that she held so firmly.

For those of us who know Jesus, we have the absolute certainty of seeing her again. Until that day we press on, inspired by her example and secure in the same glorious hope of the resurrection. "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

A graveside service will be held Monday, December 22, at 1pm at Concord Cemetery in New Market with Pastor Milton Martin and Pastor Edward Johnson officiating.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents and brothers; and her first husband, Tommy Rich. She is survived by her loving husband, Jimmy White; her son, Bryan Rich and his wife, Amy; granddaughters, Angelina and Mya; extended family and many friends.

Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.