Dalton, GA - JoAnn Wagoner Hester, age 75, of Dalton, passed away Friday July 17, 2026 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leff and Iva Grace Wagoner; and granddaughter, Hayden Hester.

JoAnn lived a life defined by love, compassion, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family. For 54 years, Rocky was not simply her husband; he was her best friend, her greatest love, and the person with whom she built the life she treasured most. Their love was the foundation of their family, and together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, support, and countless cherished memories.

JoAnn had a remarkable ability to see the good in people. She instinctively rooted for the underdog, welcomed people from every walk of life with kindness and acceptance, and believed everyone deserved to feel seen, valued, and loved.

JoAnn's home was her happy place. She loved decorating and creating a warm, welcoming space where family naturally gathered. Although she worked while raising her children, she started each morning by cooking a hot breakfast for her family and finished each day with a home cooked dinner around the table. She understood that love was found in the everyday moments whether it be family dinners, game nights, bedtime hugs, or never letting someone leave without hearing, "I love you."

She was the very definition of a mama bear, fiercely protective of her children and grandchildren, endlessly proud of them, and unwavering in her love for them. She also cherished the lifelong bond she shared with her sisters and looked forward to their treasured "sister time," filled with laughter, love, and memories they shared together with "no boys allowed".

JoAnn embraced life with a quick wit, a joyful spirit, and had an infectious sense of humor. She loved music from when she grew up in the '50s and '60s and would find any excuse to dance the Twist. JoAnn had a gift for turning ordinary moments into lasting memories.

More than anything, JoAnn will be remembered for the way she loved. She made people feel welcomed, accepted, safe, and deeply cared for. Her legacy lives in the family she adored, the friendships she treasured, and the countless lives she touched simply by simply being herself.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Carl "Rocky" Roderick Hester; son, Nathaniel Roderick Hester; daughter, Jennifer Hester Dean; sisters and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Butch Bunton, and Sharon Shumate; grandchildren, Will Stocks, and Ella Austin; several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

The funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Scott McMillan officiating.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions can be made to the charity of your choice in JoAnn's name.

Messages of comfort may be sent to the family at www.julianpeeples.com.

Arrangements are by Julian Peeples Funeral Home, Dalton. For more information, please call 706-259-7455.