Joan Strong

Joan Burton-Strong, 89, of Andersonville, passed peacefully on April 28th, 2026, in the presence of her loved ones and while under the care of Covenant Health Homecare. Joan was born to the late Mitchell and Ruth Vowell Burton on March 9th, 1937, in Briceville, TN.

Joan was preceded in death by her late husband, Kenneth Dean Strong, in June of 2022. Dean was her lifelong love, and all who knew them could feel their connection to one another. Married in April of 1953 for 69 years; their bond was unbroken. The two married young, and their love flourishes even after each of their last breaths.

“Mimi,” as she was known by many, continuously showed her selfless nature and willingness to sacrifice for others. From her youth, Joan aided in the upbringing of her siblings to aid her widowed mother. Joan was a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother to more than just family. But more so, she was a welcoming soul who cared for anyone as her own. Her character and kindness shone through as a light to anyone who knew her.

Joan’s faith was a pillar of her life. Joan was a long-time member of Laurel Branch Baptist Church, and her belief in the Lord was at the forefront of her bountiful life. Joan was additionally a lifelong member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Janet Christopher and husband David; grandson Darren Foust and wife Heather; great-grandchildren Cole Foust and wife Destiney, and Carter Foust; siblings, Neal Burton, Stevie Burton and wife Mary; and finally, sister-in-law Phyllis Ann Meredith.

Along with her late parents and husband, Dean, Joan is preceded in death by her siblings Bobbie Mitchell, Kyle Burton, Gail Byrge, Brenda Braden, and Sheila Aslinger.

The visitation for Joan will be held at Hatmaker Funeral Home on May 2nd, 2026, from 12 until 1 pm, followed by the graveside service and burial at 1:30 pm at Woodhaven Memorial Gardens with Rev. J.J. Patterson officiating.