JoAnn Finchum

JoAnn Finchum was welcomed into her heavenly home on Monday, July 31^st.  As she transitioned to her new paradise, she was surrounded by her loving husband Rick and caring team of nurses and doctors at Vanderbilt Medical. She was welcomed with open arms by family and friends who were awaiting her arrival. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Raymond Seipel and Doris Johnson Seipel.  She leaves behind her husband Rick, who she was married to for 35 years, and a multitude of family & friends that will forever cherish her memory.

JoAnn had a bold personality, a sassy attitude and spoke what was on her mind.  Her creativity, quick wit and big heart will be forever missed by her family and friends.

Giving back to her community was always on her mind and she was always looking for an opportunity to help others.  She cherished being a co-leader and was so proud of the Girl Scouts in Troop #705.  She loved being involved with East Tennessee Children's Hospital fundraiser Fantasy of Trees and recruited volunteers at every opportunity. JoAnn also enjoyed being a member of the  Smoky Mountain Quilters --every time you talked to her, she was either shopping for baby gifts, working on quilts for gifts, or making something to help others. 

Even though JoAnn faced many physical challenges during her lifetime, that never stopped her from being active! She would take off on her motorized cart “Beep” to actively participate at Girl Scout camp, help with the marathon finish line or set up decorations for the Fantasy of Trees.

She loved NASCAR, watercolor painting, playing the dulcimer, and trips to Biltmore, Charleston and especially the beach, and collecting material & gift bags (Cracker Barrel bags were her favorites!).  Even in the last few weeks of her life she was insistent on making sure things were in order to help ease the stress on Rick.  What a special lady and we’ll all miss her!

Join us in celebrating JoAnn’s life on Saturday, August 12^th.  The family will be welcoming friends from 12-1pm with a short Celebration of Life Service starting at 1pm.  Light refreshments & snacks will be served immediately after the service. 

If you want to honor JoAnn’s memory, contributions can be made to East TN Children's Hospital at ETCH.com (Home/Ways to Give/Make a donation) and/or a charity of your choice.