Jo Ann Sykes

Jo Ann Sykes, 77,  born October 10, 1947, passed away peacefully at her home on December 29, 2024. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, great aunt, and friend; known for her warm heart, generosity, and unwavering love for her family. Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Nadine Sykes; brothers, Jerry and Johnny Sykes. She is survived by her sisters, Jill Shoneman (John), Janice Clayton (Lloyd), and brother Jeff Sykes (Cindy). as well as her niece, Rachel McConnell (Tim), nephews Jamie Sykes (Christi), Jonah Sykes, and Caleb Sykes (Jayden); Great-niece Laci Sykes, and great-nephews Cody Sykes and Calvin McConnell. Jo Ann graduated from Orange High School in 1965. She attended W W Holding Technical Institute in Raleigh for medical technology. Upon graduation, she was employed by Cape Fear Valley hospital in Fayetteville. She returned home to Mebane and was employed by the Mebane clinic (Martinho’s deli) as a laboratory and X-ray technician for Doctors Bullard and Jones. She retired from the UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, McLendon Labs after 34 years of service. Jo Ann was passionate about many things in life. She was an avid traveler and an enthuastic sports fan. She loved the Duke Blue Devils and the Kansas City Chiefs. She also had an especially deep affection for her cat, Bradley, who brought her endless joy and companionship. She found peace and happiness in bird watching and taking time to appreciate the beauty of nature around her. A strong supporter of the ASPCA, Jo Ann was a true animal lover, always advocating for the well-being of all creatures. Jo Ann’s legacy is one of compassion, kindness, and dedication to both her family and the animals she cared for so deeply. Though she has left this world, her memory and the love she shared will continue to inspire and comfort all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by her remaining family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. The funeral will be held Friday, January 3, 2024, at Hebron Community Church in Mebane, NC. The family will receive friends from 11-11:45am, followed by the service at 12pm and committal in the church cemetery. A Celebration of Life reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the ASPCA or another animal charity, in her memory.