Mary Joann Thompson better known as Joann, age 86 of Chattanooga, a native of Sparta, passed away on August 22nd surrounded by her family.

Joann was born March 21, 1936 in Sparta, Tennessee to the late Paul and Martha Cody Thompson. She was a restaurant owner and cook. She was the former owner of Joann's Diner on East Bockman Way in Sparta and a cook for the White County Jail. She was voted Miss Senior White County in the late 1990's.

Surviving family members include her two brothers Paul (JoMarie) of Sparta,  Fred (Ita) of Chattanooga.  Ms. Thompson had several children, Bridgett (Chris) Miranda, Cody Thompson , Sharon Thompson. Vicky Thompson, Linda Thompson, David Thompson, and Ruby(Kenny) Patel.

A celebration of her life will be on Saturday October 8th from 1-3:00pm at Hunter Funeral Home in Sparta.