About the Author

The author, JoAnn Davis, can most readily be described as loving, kind, caring and a friend to all.  JoAnn was born and raised in the Ohio Valley and for 40 years she and her former husband, The New England  Country Gentleman, Jimmy Stephens, performed at numerous functions.  

As stars of the WWVA World’s Original Jamboree, (later changed to Jamboree USA), they have been goodwill ambassadors for the Wheeling area on their gospel and country music shows throughout the eastern United States and Canada where they performed at churches, Veteran’s Day activities, Easter Seal and MDA Telethons and many benefits for families who have been enduring  illness, fires, floods and death.  JoAnn first performed on Jamboree USA in the late 1960’s, becoming a member soon after.  She and Jimmy sang at the first Jamboree in the Hills in 1977.  They wrote many songs and recorded two albums.  JoAnn recorded “One More Time” as a single. 

JoAnn’s singing career was cut short with the onset of a cancer. Following  surgery in the area of her neck she was unable able to speak for several weeks.  Eventually her voice returned but left her unable to sing.  Being the strong compassionate woman that she is, she has used her new voice to read to children and do recitations at local events.

JoAnn has always had a special place in her heart for children.  As her own children were growing up, her home was always a favorite spot for their friends.  Among other activities, she was a Cub Scout Leader, PTA president and tutor for the Ohio County School System.  She has participated in the Child Nutrition Program of the Catholic Charities for a number of years.  JoAnn goes quietly out of her way to help those in need – expecting nothing in return.  

She truly shows love and grace in every step of her life and looks for no personal celebrity.  JoAnn was awarded a well-deserved degree at the University of Hard Knocks from Alderson-Broaddus College in 2003. 

Finding Pepper  is her first published children’s book and dvd.