JoAnn Michelle Dorcy Meeks

JoAnn Michelle Meeks, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and treasured matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully at the age of 83.

Born on August 16, 1942, in Columbus, Ohio, to James and Catherine Dorcy, JoAnn grew up in the same neighborhood as the boy who would become her husband. She and Frank Meeks were childhood sweethearts whose love story began early and endured 64 beautiful years of marriage — a testament to devotion, partnership, and lifelong friendship.

Being raised in the Catholic tradition led JoAnn to live a life of faith. Her beliefs quietly guided her generosity, her strength, and her deep commitment to family and service.

JoAnn lived a life centered on family. As the heart of her home, she gathered generations around her table for Italian-style dinners filled with laughter, abundance, and love. No one ever left hungry — in body or in spirit. Her kitchen was her stage and sanctuary, where holidays were celebrated, stories were told, and traditions were passed down.

Professionally, JoAnn managed an office alongside her husband who served as an agent with State Farm Insurance. She later dedicated herself to nonprofit volunteer work, including her time with Amethyst in Columbus, Ohio, and the Homeless Families Foundation, work of which she was especially proud. Her work at Amethyst was recognized by President Bill Clinton, and she received a Presidential Letter of Appreciation. She also served as Business Partner Coordinator and Owner of The Center at Rose Creek in Franklin, North Carolina. In every role, she brought creativity, compassion, diligence, and a servant’s heart.

She found joy in painting, ceramics, planting flowers, cooking, and hosting large gatherings. Her hands were rarely still — whether tending blooms in the garden or preparing a meal for a gathering.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, James and Catherine Dorcy; her grandparents; and several beloved aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Frank Meeks; her children: Lori Jones (Wes Bigler), Raymond Meeks, Debbie (Max) Floyd, Jim (Gwynn) Meeks, and Kevin Meeks (Nicole Joyce); and her sister, Kathleen Dorcy. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Emily Gumprecht (Danny), Joe Max Floyd (Liza), Victoria Jones (fiancé Kyle Kirchhof), Adam Meeks (fiancée Zoë Seibel), Abbey Kate Baxter (Cameron), Abbey Louise Meeks (Andrew Torrens), Taylor Beaver (Alex), Jared Floyd (Kinley), Tristan Flood, and Sophia Meeks; extended grandchildren McKenna and Sunday Ault-Nolan; along with many beloved great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

JoAnn’s greatest joy was her family. She was the steady center, the welcoming hostess, the warm embrace. Her abiding love will continue to live on in every shared meal, the holiday gatherings, and stories shared around the table. She lived with faith, devotion, and a generous spirit — and leaves behind an empathetic legacy of love that will endure for generations.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 9th at 12:00 PM at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel, 3315 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston Salem, with a reception to follow in the Robert F. Miller Center, next door to the funeral home.

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the family.