Obituary: Jo Anne Morris Sharber

Jo Anne Morris Sharber, 84, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Jo Anne was born in Bertie County on May 15, 1942, to the late Frank Ray Morris and Emma Lee Tripp Morris. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of thirty-six years, Stanley Sharber; and siblings, Milton Morris and Marion Grey Smithwick.

A graduate of Atlantic Christian College, Jo Anne earned her bachelor's degree in education and devoted much of her life to shaping young minds. She began her teaching career with Wayne County Public Schools, teaching mathematics at Goldsboro High School, before continuing her career with Lenoir County Public Schools at E.B. Frink Middle School. Throughout her years in the classroom, Jo Anne earned the admiration and respect of students and colleagues alike, receiving numerous recognitions, including being named Teacher of the Year on two occasions.

It was during her years at Atlantic Christian College that Jo Anne met a young man affectionately known as "Stan the Man," who would soon become her husband and lifelong companion. Together, Jo Anne and Stanley shared a love of traveling, often enjoying trips associated with his work through Farm Bureau. At home, they found joy in tending to their flower gardens, creating beauty in the place they loved most.

A longtime member of Bethel Fellowship Church, Jo Anne was faithful in her attendance and devotion for as long as her health permitted. Even when she could no longer attend in person, her commitment never wavered. Each week, she faithfully joined her church family in worship through Facebook, remaining connected to the congregation that meant so much to her.

Jo Anne had a special appreciation for the simple pleasures of life, particularly the beauty of God's creation. An avid birdwatcher, she kept her yard filled with feeders, delighting in the many birds that came to visit. Binoculars often in hand, she especially loved watching the hummingbirds return to her yard year after year. When enjoying the comforts of home, her television was likely tuned to the Game Show Network, unless, of course, her beloved N.C. State basketball team was playing.

Above all, Jo Anne was known for her selfless spirit. To many of her former students, she remained a favorite teacher long after their days in her classroom had ended. She especially treasured spending time with her family, and her two grandchildren were her pride and joy! Her kindness was genuine, her love freely given, and her concern for others always evident. To know Jo Anne was to love her, and those fortunate enough to have known her never had to wonder whether they were loved in return.

Jo Anne's family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Rouse Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Pinelawn Memorial Park.

Jo Anne is survived by her daughters, Beth Fitzsimmons and husband, Chris, and Jennifer Tanner and husband, Jon; grandchildren, Owen Fitzsimmons and Emmalee Bishop and husband, Nick; a special sister-in-law who was more like a sister, Margaret Branch; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the special friends who blessed Jo Anne's life with companionship, kindness, and unwavering love throughout the years, especially Margaret Branch, Margaret Ann Becton, Joyce Harrell, and Elaine Wade. They are also deeply appreciative of Dr. Randolph and her staff at ECU Health-Kinston for their compassionate care over the years, as well as Lenoir County EMS and the staff of the UNC Lenoir Emergency Department for the kindness and attentive care extended to Jo Anne during her time of need.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions can be made to Bethel Fellowship Church, c/o Jackie Overbee, 325 Cedar Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.