With humble hearts and steadfast faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we celebrate the life and homegoing of Joanne Chance, 86, of Millen, GA, who peacefully departed this earthly life on July 12, 2026.

Born on January 15, 1940 in Millen, GA, Joanne was the beloved daughter of Joe Ellis and Grace Reynolds. At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior and faithfully sought to live a life that honored God. As a devoted member of Green Fork Baptist Church, Joanne found strength in God's Word, joy in worship, and purpose in serving others.

Throughout her life, Joanne faithfully served both her community and her church with dedication and love. She devoted many years to the UGA Cooperative Extension Service, where she made a lasting impact through her work with the 4-H Club, encouraging and mentoring countless young people as they learned, grew, and developed into responsible leaders. Later, she continued her service at the Jenkins County Memorial Library, where her gentle spirit and love of books made her a favorite among children. She found great joy in reading stories to young listeners, helping to inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning. Her patient guidance, caring heart, and commitment to serving others left an enduring legacy in the lives of all who knew her.

A gifted musician, Joanne had a lifelong passion for music that she joyfully used to glorify God. She faithfully played the piano and organ for her church, sharing her talents in worship services and special occasions for many years. She also lifted her voice in praise as a devoted member of the church choir, finding great joy in worshiping alongside her church family. Beyond the church walls, she generously shared her musical gifts by teaching piano lessons to children and adults, inspiring generations of students with both her talent and her patient encouragement. Through every note she played and every lesson she taught, she reflected God's love and enriched the lives of those around her.

Joanne was known for her compassionate heart, unwavering faith, and genuine love for her family, friends, neighbors, and animals. She found joy in serving others, offering words of encouragement, sharing her talents, and living each day with grace, humility, and kindness. Whether she was mentoring a child, teaching a piano lesson, singing in the choir, caring for the animals she loved, or simply spending time with those she cherished, Joanne reflected Christ's love in all that she did. Her legacy is one of faith, integrity, generosity, and selfless service that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

Joanne is lovingly remembered by husband Gerald Chance, son Gerry Chance and daughter Joette Hoenie (Brian). She is also cherished by her grandchildren: Tori (Chris) and their children, Shelby, Sam, and Kassidy; Trent (Emily) and their children, Amelia, Charlie, and Jack; Taylor (Michelle) and their children, Blake, Maggie, and Henry; and Lexie. Although our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in the blessed assurance that she has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant," and now rests in the eternal presence of the Lord.

The family humbly asks for your continued prayers during this time of loss. Memorial contributions may be made to Green Fork Baptist Church, the Breast Cancer Foundation, or the Alzheimer's Association, causes that were meaningful to Joanne and her family.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Regency SouthernCare Hospice and caregivers, Laura Kathryn Jenkins, Melissa McGath, and Christie Smith, who provided Joanne with loving care, comfort, and support. Your kindness and dedication will always be deeply appreciated.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." - Psalm 23:1, 6 (KJV)

Though Joanne has departed from this earthly life, the testimony of her faith, the love she shared, and the countless lives she touched will remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. We sorrow, but not as those who have no hope, for we trust in God's promise of everlasting life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Joanne's life was a beautiful reflection of God's grace, and her memory will continue to be a blessing to her family, friends, church, and community for generations to come.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.