JoAnn Godwin Pope

Clayton, NC- JoAnn Godwin Pope, age 82, of Clayton, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at her residence surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 15, 1943, in Johnston County, NC, JoAnn was the daughter of the late John Ralph Godwin Sr. and Lena Pearl Strickland Godwin. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Louis Pope, and her brothers, Gerald Godwin and Jimmie Godwin. JoAnn was an amazing cook who loved gathering with her family and working with her flowers. She lovingly cared for many children throughout her lifetime and will be missed more deeply than words can say.

JoAnn is survived by her daughters, Lisa Allison and husband Paul of Clayton, and Teresa Pope and fiance Rick Hufham of Smithfield; sisters, Betty Norris of Four Oaks, Ruth Strickland of Smithfield, Lois Wilkins of Durham; brother, John Ralph “Bud” Godwin Jr.; six grandchildren, Hannah Stiles and husband Dale of Smithfield, Kylie Erickson and husband Aaron of Charlotte, Payton Sanderson and husband Dylan of Swansboro, Tristen Allison, Austin Lee, and Grayson Allison all of Clayton; two great-granddaughters, Lakelyn Sanderson and Claire Stiles; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive visitors on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 6:00pm-8:00pm, at Parrish Funeral Home. JoAnn’s memorial service will follow on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 2:00pm in the chapel of Parrish Funeral Home.

Plants and greenery are welcome, or memorial contributions to the SECU Hospice House can be made to: Johnston Health Foundation Attn: Hospice Fund, P.O. Box 1376, Smithfield, NC 27577 or at https://www.johnstonhealthfoundation.org/home/make-a-donation/.

Online condolences can be made at www.parrishfh.com.