Jo Anne Kulp Finch's Obituary
Jo Anne Kulp Finch, 76, from Oxford, AL, entered into her eternal rest on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Her devoted husband, Mike, was by her side just as he had been as her sole caregiver for the past two years.
Jo Anne was born in Redding, PA, to Raymond Henry Kulp and Betty Jo Wilkerson Kulp. The family moved to Anniston when Jo Anne was five years old. She attended Anniston High School and later fulfilled her desire to study nursing at Ayers State. Jo Anne graduated at the top of her class and earned her LPN license in 1988.
As a nursing student she met her husband, Michael Eric Finch, when he was her patient in the hospital. The two were married a year later on September 20, 1983. Together they shared love, laughter, and deep devotion for 42 years.
Jo Anne will be remembered for her great love of all animals. She always had several pets and took time to care for and love on any animal within her reach. She was an avid reader, a self-proclaimed movie buff, and an incredible singer. She had a strong Christian faith, an intellectual mind, and a marvelous and mischievous sense of humor. The only thing bigger than her love for her people is the space left in our hearts that only she could fill.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Betty Jo, brother, Michael Kulp, daughter, Jennifer Smith, son, Chris Ervin, lifelong friend, Phyllis Hamner, and her soul dog and best friend, Eli.
Jo Anne is survived by her husband, Mike Finch of Oxford, daughter, Shannon Cain (James) of Oxford, son, Aaron Smith (Millie) of Oxford, seven grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. She is also survived by her "second daughter," Lana Holmes of Oxford, and her fiercely loyal friends Judi Murray of White Plains, and Lindsey Pearson (Chuck) of Heflin.
A funeral service will be held at Cremation Services of East Alabama in White Plains on Saturday, April 25th, at 2 pm. The Reverend Porter Burtram and Minister Scott Blake will officiate. Doors will open at 1 pm for those who would like to bring and set up food. Friends and family are welcome to stay after the service to express their condolences and share memories. Please feel free to dress casually and come as you are exemplifying Jo Anne's welcoming and humble spirit.
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