February 18, 2026, 84, Kinston – In the early morning hours of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Jo Ann White Rhodes entered into eternal life with Jesus Christ, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant”. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, on November 8, 1941, Jo Ann was the daughter of the late Haywood Josiah White and Addie Margaret White. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Jon Anderson White and Elvira White Fortescue.
Raised in a loving family in Hertford, North Carolina Jo Ann graduated from Perquimans County High School in 1960. She treasured lifelong friendships and looked forward to reconnecting with classmates each year and was grateful to enjoy their sixty-fifth reunion this past June. In her early years, she worked alongside her father at White’s Barbecue.
Jo Ann was employed as a nurse at Caswell Developmental Center for thirty years, where her love for others was evident in the compassionate care she provided to those she served. Joe remembered seeing her on her very first day at work, and what began as an instant friendship soon grew into a courtship and a loving marriage that spanned more than fifty-six years. Through the years, Joe and Jo Ann were rarely seen apart, walking side by side—usually hand in hand. As the love of his life, Joe believed Jo Ann was the most beautiful woman in the world. Her faithful Christian walk reflected that beauty as she sought to honor God in every word and deed.
Soon after their marriage on April 27, 1969, Joe and Jo Ann were invited to attend New Hope Baptist Church, which quickly became their church home. Known for being present whenever the doors were open, they faithfully participated in the life and ministries of the church. In raising their children there, they set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Jo Ann read her Bible daily and shared God’s love with everyone she met. She served as a Sunday School teacher for children, helped with Vacation Bible School, went Christmas caroling, and was always willing to serve wherever needed. Together, Joe and Jo Ann had a meaningful ministry caring for the elderly and shut-ins. Whether through a phone call, a visit, a birthday card, or a small treat, many were blessed to call them generous friends.
As a young married couple, they enjoyed trips to the beach and traveling in their camper. When children came along, annual summer trips to White Lake became a cherished family tradition. Jo Ann treasured time with her children in every season of life and welcomed each new in-law as one of her own. As grandchildren were added one by one, her love only grew, and she made it a priority to be involved in their lives.
An excellent seamstress, Jo Ann delighted in making clothes for her children and grandchildren. Whether with needle and thread or through word and deed, she had a gift for mending what was torn and restoring what was broken. Her home and her heart were open to anyone in need, whether family, friend, or stranger. Ever willing to help, she was present for everything from daily carpools to life’s most special celebrations.
An exceptional cook, Jo Ann’s family eagerly gathered around her table. While everything she prepared was delicious, no meal was complete without her famous ten-layer chocolate cake. Family gatherings often ended around the piano, where voices joined together to sing beloved hymns of faith.
A service of love and remembrance will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Scott Wright officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Committal will follow at Westview Cemetery, Kinston.
Jo Ann is survived by her husband, Joe Rhodes; children, Kimberlie Rhodes Lewis and husband, Berry, Todd Rhodes and wife, Angela, and Brooke Rhodes Fulcher and husband, Timothy; grandchildren, Rylee Rhodes, Bryce Rhodes, Chester Reid Fulcher, Addie Jo Fulcher, Todd Fulcher, and Barry Fulcher; brother-in-law, Jimmy Fortescue; along with many beloved extended family members and friends.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Flowers are welcome, or memorials in Jo Ann’s honor are welcome at New Hope Baptist Church, 1990 NC-11, Kinston, NC 28504.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
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