Joann Shelton Edwards

Joann Shelton Edwards (81), of Waynesville, North Carolina, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Joann was an avid reader, and her love of books brought her great joy throughout her life.  A self-made news analyst at heart, she greatly enjoyed debating politics and discussing current events and other meaningful topics.  Joann came to the Christian faith after much seeking and accepted God’s love and peace as she came to know Jesus.  She cared deeply for humanity and was a steadfast advocate for those whose voices were seldom heard, generously supporting many local nonprofits.  Among her simplest pleasures were her visits to the beach with her husband and son.

Joann worked for many years at the Asheville Citizen-Times and with the Save the Children Foundation.  She was a disciplined and dedicated worker who held herself and others to a high standard.  Above all, she was generous with her family and found joy in providing for them bringing light into their lives.

Joann was born in Asheville, North Carolina, to the late Clinton R. Shelton, Sr. and Thelma Smith Shelton.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Rickie D. Edwards; her son, Thomas E. O’Leary, II; her sisters, Doris L. Shelton and Maxine Chandler; and her brother, Clinton R. Shelton, II.

Left to cherish her memory is her granddaughter Keely Marie O’Leary; grandson Sylas R. O’Leary; daughter-in-law Melanie H. O’Leary; brother Edwin Owen Shelton (Lynn); sister Greta Faye Shelton (Dan); niece Vicky S. Dosch (Art); great-niece Elizabeth A. Wood; nephews Jeremy S. Crisp and Jon D. Shelton (Christy); great-nephew Jude Shelton; along with many other beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.  The family would also like to recognize Robbie Emery, Tommy’s best friend, who was so faithful in helping Joann and Rickie in the years following Tommy’s passing.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Beloved Asheville Food Bank at belovedasheville.com

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., at Lake Louise in Weaverville, North Carolina.

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