Jo Ann Holly McLelland
January 11, 2026
Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye, for now, to our beloved mother, Jo Ann Holly McLelland, who passed away Sunday morning, January 11, 2026. Jo Ann leaves behind a legacy of love and grace. She was the glue of our family, whose love and steady, constant presence helped shape our lives in every way. She was a woman of faith, compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Being a mother was her greatest joy, and she gave herself fully to her family. We will miss her more than words can express, and we will be forever grateful for the memories she gave us, the lessons she taught us, and the values and love she poured into our lives.
Jo Ann is survived by her daughters, Nancy Holly (Holly) McLelland; Nina McLelland Gaines and her husband, Scott Gaines; Kelly McLelland Quick and her husband, John Quick; and Elizabeth (Betsy) Martin McLelland. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Mehran Arminoei; grandchildren, Sean Louis Arminoei and his wife, Rita Arminoei; Elizabeth Rian Barbour and her husband, Shaun Hollingsworth; and William Alexander (Alex) Barbour; great-grandson, Mehran Kinsey Arminoei (May); and her fur baby, Fiona.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Louis Martin McLelland, and her grandson, Ramin Brennan Arminoei.
A celebration of Jo Ann’s life will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Central Church, Family Life Center, 5301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC 28211. The family will greet guests following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Central Church, or that acts of kindness be done in her memory—something she would have deeply appreciated.
We take comfort in knowing that this goodbye is not forever, and that we will be with you and Daddy again in eternity.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.
Comments
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Joann, you were the best! I have so many good memories. Still want to know the salad dressing was you fixed.
Love you JoAnn. Love you so much. -
Jo Ann was a very classy, kind, gentle and thoughtful woman. I always enjoyed spending time with her at the family gatherings held at Betsy’s. The way she lived her life has helped me learn how to age more gracefully and I am a better person for having known her. Holly, Nina, Kelly and Betsy, you are fortunate to have had your mom for so many years. The way you cared for her the last years demonstrates how much love you all had for each other. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mourning is the deeper side of love. May you feel God’s loving arms around you and may His presence bring you peace.
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Ms. Jo Ann was a dear neighbor and friend! She made me laugh and often gave my daughters little gifts they treasured for years. She was a classy lady who taught me a lot. I am praying for her daughters whom she loved dearly.
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I met your mother while working as the receptionist/concierge at Pineville Rehab and Living Center and while I did not know her very well or for very long, she left me with memories I will carry with me for the rest of my life and treasure forever.
Her room was always beautiful. She had the best interior designer/s but what I remember the most about your mother was her elegance
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