Joanne Mackey Testerman

Joanne Mackey Testerman, 79, of Hickory, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, at Carolina Caring Catawba Valley Hospice House. She was born on June 17, 1945, to the late Walter and Grace Mackey.

Joanne was a strong and courageous woman who lived with cancer for over 12 years. She had a passion for gardening, especially roses, and was known for her creativity and willingness to take on nearly any DIY project. She was a trailblazer in her field, retiring from Frye Regional Medical Center as one of the first OR Techs to complete the initial training program at Catawba Valley Technical College. Joanne was a longtime member of Grace Baptist Church in Taylorsville, where she cherished many meaningful friendships within the church community.

She is survived by her daughter, Carole Ellis (Richard); her sister, Maxine Rudisill (Allen); her brother, John "Tommy" Mackey (Judy); and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Testerman, and her brother, Nelson Mackey.

"There's a better day a coming."

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Lynn, Mai, and the entire Carolina Caring team, as well as Dr. Petty and the staff at WFBH Oncology, for their compassionate care.

Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army of Hickory, NC.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Grace Baptist Church in Taylorsville, with Rev. Dr. Mark Bumgarner officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Hickory.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net.

The Testerman family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton. (828-464-1555)