Joanne Dodd J. Whiteside, a devoted educator, beloved mother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, at UNC Health Blue Ridge. Born on April 14, 1939, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Joanne’s life was marked by a deep passion for teaching, reading, and serving others.

Joanne’s commitment to education spanned over four decades. In 1961, she proudly earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Benedict College, followed by graduate studies in special education at Appalachian State University. Her teaching career began in 1964 with Hickory Public Schools, where she taught grades 1 through 6 as well as special education until 1987. During this time, her exemplary dedication was recognized with the prestigious NC State Teacher of the Year award in 1972. Joanne’s love for nurturing young minds continued from 1998 to 2010 when she served as a 3rd to 5th-grade reading assistant at Dunbar Elementary in Rutherford County Schools before retiring.

To those who knew her, Joanne was much more than an educator; she was the "Book Meister," a nickname affectionately given by her brother Howard due to her unwavering advocacy for reading. Her passion extended beyond the classroom. For 35 years, she faithfully served Wells Springs United Methodist Church as a Sunday school teacher, church treasurer, and founder of a children’s book club that fostered a love of reading in many young hearts. Moreover, she was a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, embracing sisterhood and service throughout her life.

Joanne’s family was the great joy of her life. She was married to Ellis Johnson in 1962, who went home to be with God in 1992. Later, in 2008, she married Sterling Whiteside, who also passed away only 14 months after their union. Her heart was profoundly shaped by her love for her daughter, Erin, whom she nurtured and cared for with unyielding devotion until Erin's passing in August 2024. Joanne is also remembered with fondness by her beloved step-daughter Pam.

She is survived by a loving circle of family and friends who will carry her memory forward. Among them are her son Patrick Johnson, who, along with his wife Sherwin and their children, remains a pillar of her legacy. Joanne’s brother Howard Dodd, and cherished grandchildren Ebony Hill (Winston), Dominique Johnson, Kenyon Johnson, Zack Johnson, Quay Rutherford, Alana Johnson, and Leevi Johnson continue to honor her spirit. Her family circle also embraces four great-grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. Special friends such as Pastor George Logan and Sister Linda Perkins, along with many cousins, friends, students, and sorority sisters, stand as a testament to the many lives Joanne touched warmly and meaningfully.

The community will gather to celebrate Joanne’s remarkable life and legacy with a visitation at Wells Spring United Methodist Church, 201 Wells Spring Road, Forest City, NC 28043, on May 9, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed immediately by a funeral service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Her interment will take place at the same location beginning at 2:00 PM.

Joanne J. Whiteside’s life was one of profound service, boundless love, and an enduring commitment to education and faith. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and inspiration that will resonate in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. Her gentle spirit and passionate soul will be dearly missed but forever cherished.