Joanne Smith Mitchell Sykes, 64, of Watha passed gently from her earthly life Saturday, September 15, 2018 at her home surrounded by love and her family.

She was born January 16, 1954 in Craven County, the daughter of the late James Henry Smith and Nancy Enright Smith Knowles. Also remembered is her husband, Elmer "Mitch" Mitchell; son, Ronald Mitchell; sisters, Faye Gore and Gail Cobb, all who preceded Joanne in death.

Joanne is survived by her husband of 23 years, James. P. Sykes; daughters, Sara Durden (Bryan) and Nancy Morgan (David); stepson, Tony Sykes (Lois); grandchildren, Kaitlyn Mitchell Sweeney, Hunter Moss, Nina Goodman, Connie Mitchell, Raven Flowers, Mitchell Carter, Michael Mitchell, Mckenzie Durden, Amy Sykes, Aaron Sykes, and Tyler Sykes; great grandchildren, Marilynn, Owen, Preston, and Brantley; William Carter, father of Raven Flowers and Mitchell Carter; sisters, Margie Stephens, Dianne Smith, and Debbie Everson; brothers, Allen Smith and Ricky Knowles; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Joanne attended Coras Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church. She enjoyed the simplest things in life. She was a world class shopper and also loved the beach and yellow roses. Most important in her life were family, extended family and many friends. Her presence on this earth and in her home will be greatly missed.

The family will receive friends 6 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 3, 2018 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with Pastor Randy Little conducting the service. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers please give a memorial gift in memory of Joanne to Cajun Navy Relief, PO Box 791632, New Orleans, LA 70179. This organization from Louisiana is here and is providing assistance to many Florence flood victims in our area.

Condolences and shared memories may be sent to the family by selecting "Guestbook" above.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw.