In Memory of JoAnn Hales
Posted:
April 12th, 2025
It is with immense sadness that we share the passing of JoAnn Hales, beloved member of the OQHA family and wife of the late Denny Hales, longtime OQHA executive vice president and Congress Hall of Fame member. Please find her obituary and funeral arrangements below.
In Loving Memory of a Life Well Lived. A legacy of love and strength that will forever guide our family.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of JoAnn Hales, on April 11, 2025, at the age of 75. She was born to Herbert and Teresa Osborne on February 28, 1950, in Zanesville, Ohio.
Auntie Jo was a loving mom, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend. Her warmth and strength held the family together. Her house was always full of laughter, stories, and support - the kind of place where everyone felt welcome, cared for, and truly at home.
She lived for her family and loved them all so much. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart - nothing brought her more joy than being part of their lives, cheering them on, celebrating their milestones, and surrounding them with her endless love.
She treasured family gatherings around the table, where generations came together with love, laughter, and her famous chocolate chip cookies. Vacations with loved ones were treasured, creating memories that will carry forward. Deeply believing in the power of togetherness, she made every occasion feel special.
JoAnn is survived by her siblings, Sue Jacks, Carol Osborne, and Rick (Vickie) Osborne; sister-in-law, Ronda Osborne, and Sandra (Lou) Whitehead, children, Stephanie (Daniel) Bathrick and Matthew (Kris) Hales; stepdaughter, Darci Hales; grandchildren, Justin and Lauren; step-grandchildren, Clay, Carter, Willow, and Harbor; nieces, Jodi (Scott) Perone, Allex (Chase) Smith, and Debbie (Shawn) Maddox; nephews, Chase (Madalyn) Osborne and Scott (Brande) Whitehead; great-nieces and nephews; and special friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Teresa Osborne; her husband, Denny Hales; and her brother, Herb Osborne.
She will also be deeply missed by her Ohio Quarter Horse family.
As we remember JoAnn, comfort is found in knowing she now rests peacefully, reunited with her beloved Denny… And now, the dance continues.
Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Hillis, Combs & Nestor Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville, and one hour prior to funeral service from 11:00 AM till 12 Noon on Thursday. Funeral Services will follow at 12 Noon Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the funeral home. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsnestor.com
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to make a contribution in JoAnn’s memory do so to the Muskingum County 4-H Endowment Fund (#605084) at The Ohio State University Foundation. Donations can be mailed to: Secure Processing Center, P.O. Box 736096, Chicago, IL 60673-6096.
