Mrs. Shelnutt was born in Franklin, Georgia on August 27, 1941, the daughter of the late Ruby Shelnutt Dean and Hugh Dean. She was a member of the Franklin First Baptist Church. Before her retirement she was employed by the Colonial Guests House where she was loved and respected by all of her co- workers and patients. She was an excellent cook and was especially known for her delicious cakes. Mrs. Joann did not have many spare minutes because of her tremendous work ethic, but when she did take a few leisure moments she loved to watch, “Wheel of Fortune”, “Judge Judy”, and “Family Feud”. She married the love of her life, Odell Shelnutt when she was only fourteen years old and they would have soon celebrated their sixtieth wedding anniversary. She was also a devoted mother. All who knew her will miss her greatly.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Odell Shelnutt of Franklin, GA.; one son, Mike Shelnutt (Cindy) of Carrollton, GA.; one daughter, Katrina Billingsley (Daryl) of Franklin, GA.; two special nieces, Janice McCormick and Kathy Walker both of Franklin, GA.; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Other than her parents she was preceded in death by two beloved sons, Steven and Odell Shelnutt, Jr.; two sisters, Kathrine Hill and Christine Thrower; and one brother, Bonnie Dean.