JoAnne was born on July 23, 1952, in Oxford, as one of four children born to the late James Lee Avent and Patty Ruth Hensley Avent.

She attended the University Of Mississippi, where she played the snare drum for the Pride of the South Marching band. She later transferred to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, graduating with a degree in Elementary Education, a testament to her commitment to learning and her profound passion for books.

Upon her return to Oxford, Mississippi, she continued her journey of helping with education as an employee of the University of Mississippi working in the library until her well deserved retirement.

After retiring, she remained active and engaged until her health declined. Her golden years were filled with cherished moments spent with lifelong friends Peggy Tubbs and Euphazime Gray, and family. She enjoyed spending time with her book club, cheering on Ole Miss Football, and enjoying leisure time with her beloved dog, Blooper.

JoAnne cherished her relationship with the Lord and worshipped with the body of believers at St. Andrews United Methodist Church and South Oxford Congregational Methodist Church.

Although she has departed from this world, her memory will forever hold a place in the hearts and minds of her loved ones and friends.

She leaves behind a loving family to continue walking down the path of life in her absence: one son, John Collins, and his wife, Brandy, of Pearland, Texas; two grandchildren, Walker and Johnathan Collins of Pearland, Texas; two brothers: Jim Avent and his wife Cathy of Oxford, Mississippi; Mickey Avent and his wife Tonja of Oxford, Mississippi; one sister, Patricia Becker and her husband Charles of Oxford, Mississippi; host of special nephews and nieces; beloved dog Blooper.

The loved ones that departed from this life before JoAnne include her parents, James Lee Avent and Patty Ruth Hensley Avent.