Jo Ann White

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Jo Ann White, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many. Jo Ann departed this world on May 2, 2026, at the Circle of Life hospice house in Springdale, AR, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 27, 1944, in Bradley County, AR, to John Noel and Lillie Hargis. Jo Ann was a beacon of faith and devotion, known for her unwavering commitment to her family and her community. She graduated from Hermitage High School in 1962 and pursued further education at Henderson State University. It was during these formative years that Jo Ann honed the skills and passions that would later define her remarkable career in home design and interior decorating. Together with her husband Royce White, whom she married in 1966, Jo Ann spent three decades designing and building custom homes, leaving a tangible legacy of beauty and craftsmanship in each structure she conceived. Her ability to transform spaces was matched only by her kindness and integrity—qualities that endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. An active member of the First United Methodist Church of Springdale, Jo Ann dedicated countless hours volunteering at the church's food pantry and assisting wherever she was needed, embodying the spirit of giving and service that characterized her life. Her faith in Christ was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through the joys and challenges she faced. Jo Ann had a deep love for reading and gardening, finding solace and joy in the pages of a good book and the quietude of her garden. She was also an ardent supporter of Arkansas Razorback sports, cheering on her favorite teams with enthusiasm and pride. Jo Ann is survived by her devoted husband of sixty years, Royce White of Springdale, AR; her cherished daughters, Leslie Webb (Mike) of Whitehall, AR, Whitney Crutchfield (Jared) of Maumelle, AR, and Sloane Early (Preston) of Springdale, AR. She leaves behind four beloved grandsons, Matt Hart of Little Rock, AR, Abe Young (Courtney) of Katy, TX, Eli Young of Fayetteville, AR, and Jake Early of Little Rock, AR, who were the pride and joy of her life. Jo Ann is also survived by her sister, Twila Whitely of Berryville, AR, and her nonbiological sister, Blanche Garner of Conway, AR. She is predeceased by her parents, John Noel and Lillie Hargis, and her siblings, Arlie June Hargis, Sonya Nell Knowels, and Bailey Mac Hargis. A service to celebrate Jo Ann's life will be held on May 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Nelson Berna Funeral Home, located at 4520 N. Crossover Rd, Fayetteville, AR 72703. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity close to Jo Ann's heart at 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or by calling 800.272.3900. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Don and Cynthia Puckett, and Susan Puckett for their unwavering friendship and support throughout this journey. Special gratitude is extended to the Circle of Life hospice team, including Nurse Samantha Thompson, Aide Chelsea Freeman, Chaplain Teresa Jones, and Social Worker Charity Hawkins, for their compassionate care and support over the past six months. Jo Ann White's legacy is one of love, devotion, and a life dedicated to others. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.