KILL DEVIL HILLS — JoAnne Norris Junkin, 73, of Kill Devil Hills, NC, passed away peacefully at home on August 3, 2024. Born on December 25, 1950, in Raleigh, NC, JoAnne’s life was a rich tapestry of love, service, and unwavering devotion.
JoAnne was a dedicated Navy wife who moved all over the country with her husband, Joe Wade Junkin, and their three children for over two decades of military service. Her commitment to her family and country was matched by her dedication to her work as a defense contractor, from which she retired in 2013. She and Joe then moved to their dream beach home in Kill Devil Hills, NC to live out their retirement by the water and open their home as a vacation destination to their family for summers, Thanksgivings, Christmases, and fun weekends at J&J’s Beach Shack.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Joe Wade Junkin; her daughter, Candace Junkin; and her parents, Marie and Nello Norris. JoAnne is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Charles) Rosenfield; her son, Christopher (Karen) Junkin; her son-in-law, Benjamin McKay; sister Patricia (Richard) Paschall; and brother Douglas (Jane) Norris. She leaves behind a cherished legacy of nine grandchildren—Ashli (Sean) Regan, Sarah (Courtney) Ziolkowski, Tori Junkin, William Knight, Wade Junkin, Zachary Rosenfield, Paula McKay, Laura McKay, and Gabrielle McKay—as well as a great-grandson, Connor Regan.
JoAnne will be dearly missed by her partner, Terry Moore, and a village of loving friends and extended family. Her home was always a place where everyone felt welcome, well-fed, and part of a loving family. A devoted Christian, JoAnne exemplified Christ’s love through her generosity and care for others. She had a deep love for animals, often rescuing dogs and cats and showering them with affection. Christmas was her favorite holiday and she loved planning all year to create magical memories for her children and grandchildren, who loved celebrating her birthday with her at the same time. JoAnne always made sure her family knew they were loved. She was known to send cards or gifts for any occasion, often filled with confetti, just to make them smile.
JoAnne’s legacy of love, generosity, and hospitality will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be remembered fondly and deeply missed.
A memorial service to celebrate JoAnne’s remarkable life will be held at a later date. She will be laid to rest with Joe at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation to help find a cure or your local ASPCA to help animals find loving homes. Please share condolences with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.
