Joanna Snuggs McGaughy, 84, died June 28th, 2010 at her home in Montevallo, Alabama. She was lovingly cared for by her son, David during her last years.

Joanna was born on November 19,1925 in Dothan Alabama to Mattie Lynn Lee and William Elbert Snuggs. She was named for her grandparents, Joe and Nancy Anna Snuggs. Her sister, Sarah was her constant companion while growing up in Ozark Alabama and they attended Alabama College (now University of Montevallo) together. While at college, Joanna was president of Omicron Nu, sang in the chorus, and enjoyed dancing to music from the big band era. She received a degree in Home Economics and after graduating went on to work as a metalurgist, before marrying Earl Wilkerson McGaughy. Joanna and Earl made their first home in Parkersburg, West Virginia, but after a few years, they moved back to Alabama and eventually settled in Montevallo.

Joanna was a partner in marriage and work with her husband of 38 years, as she helped with the day to day operations of Montevallo Cleaners along with making a home and bringing up her four children. In the 1970’s she returned to her alma mater, received her Masters Degree in Education, and began a career teaching biology and general science at Montevallo High School. During her husband’s long illness, she continued to teach, oversee the business and raise her children, all the while caring for her husband and aging parents.

A life long learner and avid reader, she was also a bird watcher, letter writer, gardener, bridge player, family genealogist and extraordinary cook. After retiring, she pursued the joys of traveling abroad and also enjoyed getting to know her grandchildren. Joanna loved art, music, architecture and entertaining her friends and family. She passed many of these interests along to her children and they all enjoy a fuller life today, because of her positive influences.

She was small in stature, but large in character, and personified an honest Southern Woman. Her charming smile, sparkling blue eyes, intelligent conversation and warm personality will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her sister, Sarah Whetstone Whitman, her children Larry and Nancy McGaughy, Jerry and Susie McGaughy, David McGaughy and Anna and Keith Wilder. Her grandchildren are Taylor McGaughy, Kate and Troy Scarborough, Patrick McGaughy, David and Laura Wilder and great granddaughter, Beth Scarborough.

A memorial service to celebrate Joanna’s long and full life, will be held on Saturday July 3rd, 2010 at 2:00 PM, at University Baptist Church in Montevallo, Alabama. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to your favorite charity.