Joanne Newsome Brazell

Joanne Newsome Brazell, a cherished matriarch and a beacon of love and resilience, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, in Phenix City, Alabama. Born on May 21, 1945, in Hartford, Alabama, Joanne's life was a tapestry of devotion to her family, passion for nature, and a legacy of enduring friendships.

Joanne's journey through life was marked by her unwavering spirit and the joy she found in the simple pleasures around her. She was a member of the Philadelphia Baptist Church and held the values of faith and community close to her heart. Her commitment to these values was further exemplified through her involvement with WoodmenLife, where she extended her kinship and support to others.

As a young girl, Joanne discovered the value of hard work while picking cotton in the fields of Alabama. Those early experiences not only shaped her strong work ethic but also instilled in her a fondness for the land that she carried throughout her life. Later, she joined Fieldcrest Mills, where she not only contributed her talents but also cultivated a family among her coworkers, whom she kept close to her heart long after her retirement.

An avid gardener, Joanne's world bloomed with the flowers she so lovingly nurtured. Her garden was a vibrant testament to her patience and care, with each new flower bringing her immense joy. She had a special affinity for red birds, whose presence in her garden always seemed to brighten her day. An enthusiastic Elvis fan, Joanne's love for the King of Rock 'n' Roll was a delightful hallmark that those close to her fondly remember.

Above all, Joanne's love for her family was the cornerstone of her existence. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Melissa Hearn (Mike), and her beloved grandchildren, Brittany Withem (Cody), Celeste Clay (Heath), Tanner Yeomans, and Savannah Yeomans. She was also a proud great-grandmother to James Withem and Audrey Clay. Joanne's legacy extends to her numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends, who will miss her dearly.

Joanne was preceded in death by her loving spouse, Teddie Dewitt Brazell, and her son, Mike Yeomans. Her parents, Charles Foster and Ira Mae (Odom) Newsome, as well as her siblings, James Edward Newsome, Glen Newsome, Bobby Gene Newsome, Ruby Clyde Newsome, Edna Ruth Newsome, Elby Ray Newsome, Elizabeth Newsome (Elmore), Mary Faye Newsome (Boutwell), and Johnnie Mae Newsome, have all passed before her.

Visitation for Joanne will be held at Colonial Funeral Home in Phenix City, Alabama on Friday, November 21 from 6:00PM-8:00PM EST.. The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, November 22nd, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the same location.

Joanne Newsome Brazell's life was a melody of love, service, and the beauty of the natural world. Her memory will continue to inspire those she left behind, and her legacy will bloom eternally in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. 
 

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