Joanna Irene Mitchell (French), 43, of White, GA was unexpectedly called to heaven May 29, 2016 along with her most beloved dog Scrappy. She is now resting peacefully with her father, her brothers John and Jerry, her nephew Derek and her dog Jake. Joanna fills a special place in the many hearts she touched during her time with us. Her energetic and fun spirit brought smiles, laughter and joy to all who knew her. Joanna was an incredibly kind and selfless person, always ready to help those in need.

Joanna was an adventurous soul who traveled extensively with her husband Nick Lynch to many oceanside destinations. Their many trips to gulf states and other tropical locations were very special to them both. The enthusiasm she exhibited when reliving those trips with family and friends made clear to us all how magical and cherished those memories were to her. In addition to travleing with her husband, she loved being outdoors. Spending time at the nearby lake, walking her dogs and gardening were among her favorites.

Joanna did not have children of her own, sharing instead her love of children with her nieces and nephews. She thorougly enjoyed spending time with them and loved to surprise them with gifts and treats with her ever-present silliness on full display. She was a dedicated family member who routinely traveled the great distance between her home and New Hampshire to visit with her mom, siblings, nieces and nephews. Her love was not limited to her family and friends. She loved with all her heart her dogs Scrappy, Buddy, Dexter and Jack and spoiled them often.

During the last months of Joanna's life, she dedicated herself to the care of her family as her nephew Derek neared the end of his lifelong battle with cancer. She lifted our spirits with her presence and lessened our burdens by helping wherever and whenever she could. She loved Derek very much and his passing just 30 days prior to her own touched her deeply. On Joanna's behalf, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which helped Derek for nearly his entire life. http://www.stjude.org

Joanna's family and friends would like to thank her for her honorable service in the United States Air Force.

Joanna leaves behind her husband Nick, mother Katherine French, sisters Laura French, Mary Hoyt (Shapleigh) and Cheryl Nevins, brothers James French, Jeff Shapleigh, and Jack French, nieces Ashley Hoyt and Jacqueline French, nephews Eddie Mccurry, Joey Richard, and Oliver French. Joanna was predeceased by her father Jack French, brothers Jerry and John French, and nephew Derek Hoyt.

Private services will be held at a later date.

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.