Shirley “Joanne” Bowden, age 79, of Elk Park, NC went home to be with her Savior on Friday, July 28th, 2023 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Baltimore, Maryland, she grew up in Linville, NC, and was a daughter of the late Stewart Edward and Jeanette M. Greene Hunnicutt. Her sister, Nancy Hunnicutt Gilbert, and a grandson, Joseph Lee Foster, also preceded her in death.
Joanne was a strong woman with an enthusiasm for life who loved making people laugh and telling stories about her life. She loved her family and friends, and was frequently known to say, “I love you more than a hog loves slop!”
When her health allowed, she enjoyed camping, traveling to the beach, deep-sea fishing, and eating “good” flounder. She loved animals, and especially her dog, Bella. Joanne’s most important legacy will always be her love for Christ. Raised by a Godly Christian grandmother, the seeds of faith were planted early. She would always say she wished she had known Him as Savior far sooner, for He made all the difference.
Surviving are her children: Donna Foster Burnop (David), and Glenn Douglas Foster, Jr., all of Newland, Sheila E. Foster of Ramseur, NC, and Mark A. Foster of Roan Mountain, TN; 10 grandchildren: Michael Burnop (Michelle), Zachary Burnop (Jena), Beth Stocton (Brett), Amber Foster (Justin Buchanan), Elisha Foster, Christina Mattern, Katy Williams, Kelly Tillson (David), Jay Williams, and Joshua Foster; 15 great-grandchildren: Cameron, Preston, Jackson, Sawyer, Olivia (Livy), Remington, Addyson, Mia, Sophie, Emma, Ally, Liam, Daisy, Olivia (Ollie) and Destiny; brother, Stewart “Junior” Hunnicutt; and four sisters-in-law: Becky Williams, Mary Barlow, Glenda Gentry, Aleisa Foster; and many other other special family and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 1st at Cranberry Baptist Church. Pastors David Burnop and Michael Burnop will officiate. The family will receive friends from 5 to 6:30 p.m. prior to the service. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 3rd at Tanglewood Cemetery in Linville, NC.
Memorial donations may be made to the Avery County Humane Society at 279 New Vale Road, Newland, NC 28657.
To send online condolences please visit: www.yanceyfuneralservice.com
