Joann Patricia (Devantier) Nichols McFarland

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joann Patricia (Devantier) Nichols McFarland, born on August 14, 1934, in Galveston, Texas, to William and Agnes (Hattenbach) Devantier. Joann, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, departed this life peacefully on October 19, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by her beloved daughters and family.

Joann was the proud co-owner and operator of Nichols Exxon in the south Houston area, where she dedicated many years of hard work and passion to serve her community. After living for a period of time in Groveton, Texas, she embraced the tranquility of Centerville, Texas, where she lived for the last twelve years, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth and closeness of her family.

A woman of vibrant spirit, Joann found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a profound love for hummingbirds and took delight in preparing special food for them. Her keen mind and loving heart were evident in her passion for playing dominoes and cards, as well as in her enjoyment of reading, completing puzzles, and engaging with word searches. Joann was not just an avid reader; she was a fervent follower of Yahushua HaMaschiach and the Bible, known for her powerful prayers and unwavering faith. Just being in her presence one felt love. Even if you didn't know her, it was the love she had for Yahushua that shown through. You could feel the love that was in her overflowing to all of those around her. Joann had an amazing gift for accepting others into her family as her own. Her generous nature allowed for her to care for not only her own family, but so many others throughout the years, as well.

Joann was preceded in death by both of her parents; husbands, Joe Edward Nichols and Paul McFarland; children, Katherine Irene Nichols and Alan Nichols; grandchild, Kathy; and siblings, William "Bill" Devantier, Frank Devantier, Frances O'Kelly, Vivian Mayew, Carmen Odinot, Agnes "Aggie" McFarland, and Gus Devantier.

Surviving family members include daughters, Cheryl (Nichols) Montalvo of Houston and Linda (Nichols) Ingram of Centerville; grandchildren, Alice, Robert & wife, Kara, and Kevin & wife, Tabatha; great-grandchildren, Tammy, Josie Ann, Alexandra, Chloe, Christina, Cody, Kade, Tristan, Korree, Micah, Kasen, and Kaleb; and great-great-grandchildren, Chloe and Enzo.

Joann's family and friends remember her as a bright light in their lives. She was loved deeply and her legacy of love will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew her.

As we gather to honor Joann Patricia McFarland, let us remember her love, spirit, and the indelible mark she left upon our lives. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the beauty of God's creation that she cherished so dearly.

A graveside service for Joann will be held 2 P.M., Friday, October 24, 2025, at Hayes Grace Memorial Park Cemetery, Hitchcock, Texas.  A time of visitation will take place Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M., at Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.