Jo-Ann Teresa "Lenzi" Popham

  After a courageous journey with cancer, Jo-Ann Teresa ‘Lenzi’ Popham, 72, of Harrisburg, NC passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026, with her husband of 52 years by her side.

  Jo-Ann was born February 25, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York to the late Frances Thomas Lenzi and Grace Veronica Lenzi.

  As a young child Jo-Ann and her parents relocated to Orlando, Florida to be near family. She graduated from Edgewater High School in 1971 and Valencia Junior College in 1973. Thereafter she attended the University of Florida and graduated with an Accounting Degree from West Georgia College in 1989, all while raising her family in Peachtree City, GA.

  She is survived by her loving husband Gregory Perry Popham of Harrisburg, NC; her children, Cameron Lenzi Popham and his wife Ashley, of Thompson Station, TN.; Amber Nicole Popham and her husband Fergus Coffey of Charlotte, NC., Erin Blair Popham Skelton and her husband Steven of Fort Mill, SC., and her five grandchildren, Conner and Emery Popham, Hunter and Austin Skelton, and Graham Coffey.

The Essence of Jo-Ann …

  On August 5, 1970, Jo-Ann met the love of her life during a family picnic in Sanlando Springs, just outside of Orlando, Florida. What began as a chance meeting became a lifelong bond. From that day forward, their hands remained intertwined until January 7, 2026, when Greg released her hand so she could join Christ and her parents in God’s eternal paradise.

  Throughout their life together, Jo-Ann was always placed first and she was reminded that she was always the most beautiful woman in every room they entered whether at grand celebrations or quiet gatherings. And during all of her infusions and other medical treatments her courage and strength shone through every challenge. She once expressed deep gratitude for the comfort and love she received from Greg during her first chemotherapy treatment, a moment that reflected the tenderness and devotion that defined her marriage.

  The number three held special meaning for Jo-Ann. As an only child raised by two devoted parents her immediate family unit totaled three, she was later blessed with three healthy children. She held close the belief that “children make a poor man rich,” and her family was the greatest joy of her life.

  Jo-Ann cherished the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom, which allowed her to be fully present and actively involved in her children’s lives. From serving as a Scout troop leader and PTO treasurer to sewing Halloween costumes and wholeheartedly supporting each child’s interests, she gave her time, love, and devotion selflessly. Her children were the center of her world, and her dedication to them shaped their lives in countless ways.

  Jo-Ann’s life was also rich with love, laughter, and adventure. After her children were grown, she rediscovered a deep love of travel, embracing both simple joys and extraordinary experiences – from canoeing and camping to traveling abroad and visiting the worlds’ natural wonders. Among her most treasured memories was visiting Niagara Falls hand in hand with her beloved on her 36th wedding anniversary, a moment she described as breathtaking and one she hoped her children would experience someday.

  Jo-Ann’s friendships were deeply important to her too. She was loyal, genuine, and endearing. Qualities that brought smiles whenever her name was spoken. Her wit and straightforward honesty were unmistakable, always delivered with sincerity and her authenticity left an impression on all who knew her.

  She took considerable pride in the marriage she and her husband built together—one grounded in faith, commitment, and perseverance. They honored their vows through life’s joys and hardships, through abundance and scarcity, through sickness and health. Their love was a true partnership, marked by devotion, humor, and enduring respect.

  Jo-Ann celebrated life with everyone around her—family, friends, book club, card club, neighbors, and her cherished church family. She lived a full and meaningful life, and it is believed that her greatest wish for others is this: trust in God, believe in your family, protect your values, and always do what is right.

Service Details

  Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life honoring Jo-Ann on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Martin Lutheran Church, officiated by Pastor Emily Lemoine. A community dinner will follow the service at 11:30 a.m., as we continue to celebrate her life together.

St. Martin Lutheran Church

5469 Highway 200 ww.google.com

Concord, NC 28025-8175

  In Lieu of Flowers, Jo-Ann’s request was that Memorials be made to Atrium Health Foundation in support of ongoing research for Multiple Myeloma and Myelodysplastic Syndromes, helping in the continued fight against these blood cancers.

  Donate to Tribute and Memorial Gifts - Please make donations in support of the Carolina’s Myeloma Research Fund