Joanne Mcneill Hales

Joanne McNeill Hales, our lovely mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully concluded her earthly journey on June 22, 2025 at Homestead Hills in Winston- Salem. A North Carolinian for life, she was born May 5, 1938 in Troy where she had an idyllic upbringing which helped define her life.  Her parents were Demcie Thomas McNeill (Mac) and Gertrude McDonald McNeill of Scots-Irish heritage. Her home, on the outskirts of Troy, allowed her to walk to her nearby school and participate in after school activities. It was during those activities that she made a host of friends: friends she looked forward to seeing at class reunions, and those with whom she kept in contact for her life-time.

It was at Appalachian State University where she met the love of her life. Charles Hales (deceased) had enrolled at ASU after a tour of duty in the military. She was in English class when he came striding in. Dark wavy hair, fit and with striking features, Chuck Hales was clean cut “movie star” handsome. They married in 1958 in the home of the English professor.

Born to their union are daughters Laverne Hales Hibbett (Mark Hibbett spouse) and Carmen Hales Cox (Alan Cox spouse). Jo had high expectations for her daughters and instilled in them an understanding of the value of a good education. She expected them to give their best effort, to finish what they started, to do the right thing, and to always make wise choices. According to Laverne, despite her expectations, “she was forgiving when we didn’t.” She embodied the Proverbs 31 woman and modeled this Biblical character. Her girls remember her as professional and polished, dignified and proper, generous and helpful. She was always willing to listen to the challenges they were facing and help them understand human behavior. Even more importantly, she told them often that she loved them. That love multiplied with the addition of her dear granddaughter, Sarah Jane Hibbett.

Joanne attended ASU for her Bachelor’s degree in education and went on to attend multiple graduate study programs both home and abroad, resulting in a plethora of knowledge and culminating with a Master’s degree in Education from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro and a Master’s degree in School Administration from North Carolina A&T.  She participated in graduate studies at Wichita State University; Universidad de Puebla, Mexico; East Carolina University; and Universidad de Madrid, Espana.  Through the whole of her endeavors, she was supported and encouraged by her family.  Her career in education began at East Wilkes High School in Ronda, North Carolina as a Spanish teacher. It was during this time from 1960 to 1965 Joanne was an actress in the outdoor drama “Horn in the West” in Boone, North Carolina. Upon moving to Welcome, she taught at North Davidson Senior High, Lexington Senior High, and Davidson County Community College. She was awarded Outstanding Student Teacher from ASU and Outstanding Young Educator of Davidson County.  In 1962, the East Wilkes High School yearbook was dedicated to both her and Charles, who also taught at East Wilkes. In 1971, the Lexington Senior High School yearbook was dedicated to Joanne. She transitioned to the position of Guidance Counselor at Lexington Senior High in 1973. Later, she accepted an Assistant Principalship at North Davidson High School. She culminated her career in education as a Director for Davidson County Schools and was assigned to the Administrative Offices.

Joanne lent her skills and expertise as District President to the North Carolina Association of Educators and State President of the Foreign Language Teachers organization. She served as President of Beta Sigma Phi. She was involved with the March of Dimes, Heart Fund, American Field Service, and organizations serving individuals with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities.

Joanne was a benevolent individual and as a teacher, guidance counselor, and assistant principal, she cared deeply about a student’s happiness and security. She desired for them all to find their path in life and to get the appropriate education to help them provide for their future. There was a student in one of her Spanish classes whose dad was terminally ill. She desperately conveyed to Jo her desire to spend more time with him. Jo set about making it happen. Following his passing the student shared with Jo how grateful she was for her help, generosity, and especially for the time she spent just listening. She shared her intent to become a teacher and her determination to model Jo. She succeeded in meeting these goals.

Joanne enjoyed reading, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. She always looked forward to visits over Thanksgiving from the Ohio family and the many campouts with her niece’s family in Reedy Creek. She enjoyed spending time at Carolina Beach where she made many friends. Jo visited Mexico and many countries in Europe, Central and South America, and the Caribbean but regardless of where she found herself or with whom, she was always content.

She was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Welcome and happily volunteered as a Lector. She was excited about the new addition to the church several years ago and took a keen interest in helping the outfitting for use by the congregation and community. Her friends at Our Saviour’s held a special place in her heart and she loved them like family.

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church will host a visitation on Friday, July 11, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. The Memorial Service for Joanne will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Our Saviour’s with lunch following for all in attendance, as requested by Joanne.

Joanne believed and embodied the adage, “The hand of God touches your life when you make a friend.” Every place she lived, worked, or visited, Jo made friends.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Homestead Hills who loved and cared for her so beautifully, and to the Trellis team who assisted in her care.

Memorials may be made to Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Welcome, NC PO Box 1119 Welcome, NC 27374, the American Lung Association or any charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.davidsonfuneralhome.net.