Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson Obituary in Richmond at Scotts Funeral Home

Obituary For Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson

Dr. JoAnn Thomas Wilson, of Fayetteville, Georgia, formerly of Richmond, died July 2, 2024. She was born in Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C., on March 22, 1950, to James and Dorothy Thomas. She was the fifth child out of thirteen. As a child, she attended Maury Elementary, Eliot Jr. High, and matriculated through McKinley Tech High School. JoAnn was known for being erudite, a trait she carried throughout her life. She was also recognized as one of the smartest and brightest students at her alma mater, from which she graduated in 1968. She took her talents to Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, where she received a full scholarship. As a student at Lincoln University, she was involved in numerous campus organizations and served as the Yearbook Editor of The Lion. After graduating summa cum laude with a B.A. in Psychology from Lincoln University, she was awarded a scholarship to continue her academic pursuits at the University of Denver, where she continued to excel. There, JoAnn graduated summa cum laude with her M.A. and Ph.D. in Child Clinical Psychology.

In 1977, JoAnn moved to Richmond, where she completed her clinical residency at McGuire Hospital and began working as the Community College Psychologist and Assistant Professor in the Psychology Department at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. While working and teaching in Richmond, she soon became one of the first Black woman clinical psychologists, specializing in children and families. In 1981, she began her career as a Court Psychologist for the City of Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

Here in Richmond, she met the love of her life, Charles Wilson. She famously tells the story of how he swept her off her feet on their first date when he invited her to play tennis. Charles and JoAnn were married on October 20, 1979. Together, they raised three children (Charles Wilson Jr., Tamaini Wilson, and Terrence Wilson) and two grandchildren. Her goal as a parent was to expose and immerse her children in the richness of Black culture and history.

For over a decade, she served the students, faculty, and staff at Virginia State University as Associate Professor, Guidance & Counseling Graduate Program University Mediator Director, Students With Disabilities Program Director, and Assistant Professor for the Department of Psychology. JoAnn always maintained her private practice as a Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Consultant. As a consultant, she was featured in Emerge Magazine and on numerous television shows, including Teen Summit, Leeza Gibbons, and Montell Williams, as an expert on the cycle of domestic violence and abuse.

JoAnn spent countless hours dedicated to her community and her clients. She was an active member of Gravel Hill Baptist Church, where the Wilson family has been members for over 40 years. In 1993, JoAnn became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.®, Rho Eta Omega Chapter in Richmond, Virginia, continuing her commitment to service and uplifting the community. As a servant leader and advocate for children, women, and families, JoAnn served as a board member of numerous organizations, on the Alumni Board of Directors for Lincoln University, and as past president of the Women’s Commission of Richmond.

During her later years, JoAnn and Charles retired and moved to Georgia to live with their daughter. She spent her years in Georgia surrounded by family, friends, and sorority members. She enjoyed jazz concerts, jazz festivals, boat rides, and fishing with her family. There is no way to quantify the numerous lives and people that she poured love into over her lifetime. Her impact on her family, friends, and community is immeasurable. JoAnn’s erudition, expertise, voice, demeanor, thoughtfulness, empathy, and service to others will be sorely missed.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, July 15, 2024. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 16 at Gravel Hill Baptist Church, 2600 Gravel Hill Road. Rev. Louis Jones officiating. Interment private.

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Pink Tribute Spray was sent for Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson - July 15, 2024

Send flowers for Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson

Yolanda Yvonne Johnson sent Heavenly Heights Bouquet for Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson - July 14, 2024

Although we couldn't be there physically with you, We send a small token of love and support to Tamaini Wilson for the lost of your mother from The WESTLAKE HS JROTC Team Atlanta, GA

Sweet Moments was sent for Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson - July 13, 2024

Charles Wilson sent The Peace Lily for Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson - July 06, 2024

Our Condolences from the Wilsons Families of South Carolina

Mr. Wilson, Tamaini, Chuck, Terrance, and extended family, it is with heartfelt sadness that I send you my deepest condolences and prayers. Dr. Wilson was a second mom to me and so many others! She was a trailblazer and dynamic woman who paved the way for so many of us! I had been looking for Mr. Wilson and her for awhile now. This is heartbreaking. I pray that you find comfort in the many beautiful memories that you shared. I have so many positive and powerful memories that I shared with her. May God continue to bless each of you. Kristie W.

I took care of Joanne's children. My condolences to the entire family. What a treasure we have lost. Dr. Sandra Bell. E59j

Kevin Thomas and family,
Please accept our deepest condolences as you mourn the loss of your sister/loved one. May God grant strength and comfort to you all during this difficult time. We mourn with you.
Ken and Leslie Gordon

To the Wilson Family, you remain in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you peace and comfort during this period of bereavement. You have blessed us richly over the years and we're grateful for the friendship and fellowship. The Hillman family

Dr Wilson was a unique compassionate individual with whom we enjoyed sharing holidays over the years. I will not forget her legacy of kindness and generosity .

Dear Charles, Charles, Jr, Tamaini, Terrence and extended family. Mary and I extend our deepest sympathies to you during this difficult time. We have worked with Dr. Wilson on many projects and ministries. She was the consummate professional. God bless you all and may the Holy Spirit be your comfort as you mourn.

Tamaini, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom and I pray for peace and comfort for you and your family during this difficult time. She was a force to be reckoned with and I feel blessed to have known her. I remember that funny short story you wrote in high school that mentioned what happened once when you talked back to her 🤣 May you find comfort in your memories and the amazing legacy that she created. - Stacie

Charles, my heart dropped when I learned of Joann's passing. I think you know how much she meant to me as a professional, a friend, and a sorority member. She has helped me through difficult times, and I will always be grateful that she was a part of my life! You, your children, and entire family have my deepest sympathy! Dr. Connie Hill Galloway and John

Charles, My sincere condolences to the family. Joann will be truly missed, the memories of gathering we share will forever be in my heart. "Jo"as you know was a big sister for me. Chuck, Tamaini and Terrence(Whitney)together know you are surrounded with beautiful memories of laughter, conversations and love. May the Lord comforting arms keep you in His loving care. Jackie Baskerville

Tamaini Wilson, Please accept my heartfelt condolences 💐 and prayers for you and your family as you navigate the passing of your mother. She was indeed a trailblazer who paved the way for so many of us to follow. I have heard so many stories about your beautiful mother but I have personally witnessed through you how much of an influence she truly was. Your mother raised a remarkable young lady and we all are blessed to have you in our lives. We love you Sis and will be here for you! Love, Sergeant Major Johnson

Wilson, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a kind and loving person. She always made me feel supported and I remember her being so proud of my little magazine. Her warmth, generosity, and encouragement left a lasting impression on me. She raised a wonderful person in you, and her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched. Please know that I am here for you during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Max

To the family of Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson, We want to express our heartfelt sympathy. Please know that we are among the many who are standing with you and praying for you during this time.
Psalm 27:4 "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple." Praying for God's love, peace and presence to be with you in the most comforting ways during this time. Blessings To You, Rev. Morris & Soror Lynda Gant

Tamaini, my prayers are with you and your family in the loss of your mother. She was a shero to many, fierce and full of compassion for her community. May God comfort and strengthen you. James R.

Our sincere condolences on the passing of your Loved One. We hope that the pain of your loss is lessened by the fond memories you have of her. May they also comfort you at this time.
The Boswell Family, Glen Allen VA

May God's promises comfort you and sustain you. May His love be your strength and hope. With Deepest Sympathy,
Pannell and Alma Brown Richmond, VA.

We the staff of Southwest Christian Care would like to offer our condolence to the Wilson Family,

To the Family of Dr Joann Thomas Wilson, I met her 15 years go and found her to be a very kind and helpful person in your time of need. She also became a good friend. She will be missed by all that knew her.
Ellen Tyree-Green

My condolences to the family. Dr. Thomas Wilson was a wonderful professor at VSU. She was an advocate for people & taught life lessons. 🧡💙

Dear Wilson Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Joann Thomas Wilson's passing. On behalf of my family, please accept our heartfelt condolences. Dr. Wilson's legacy of dedication and service will forever be remembered and cherished. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy, Bro. J.E. Hendricks Hobson Lodge #23

My prayers extended to the family. Dr. Thomas Wilson was a great professor at VSU. She always offered information to help us grow in our profession 🧡💙

May the Spirit of the Lord comfort, keep and hold you during this most difficult time. We will keep your family in my prayers 🙏🏾 ❤️
Tracie Pendergrass Cromedy