News Summary
Joanne Sexton, a respected U.S. Navy Commander and leader in cybersecurity education, passed away at 72. Her legacy includes significant contributions to military intelligence and the establishment of crucial programs for cybersecurity training at Augusta University. As a mentor, she influenced numerous students and professionals in her field, leaving behind a lasting impact. A Celebration of Life service is planned as her community honors her memory and dedication to education.
Horseshoe Bay, Texas — Joanne Sexton, a pioneering figure in cybersecurity education and a respected U.S. Navy Commander, passed away at the age of 72 on September 19, 2025. At the time of her death, she was residing in Evans, Georgia. Sexton’s legacy includes her remarkable contributions to the fields of military intelligence and cybersecurity education, impacting generations of students and professionals.
Surviving her are her mother, Helen Sexton, of Boynton Beach, Florida, and her sister, Laura Nagle, and brother-in-law John, both of Horseshoe Bay, Texas. She was born on January 14, 1953, in Plainfield, New Jersey, as the youngest daughter of Edward and Helen Sexton.
Sexton graduated from New Providence High School in New Jersey before earning her Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from Rutgers University in 1978. While at Rutgers, she made history as a member of the school’s first women’s basketball team.
In 1975, Sexton joined the Navy, entering naval officer training after her graduation from Rutgers. She served as a cryptologist and was notably the first junior navy officer assigned to the Pentagon, where she met pioneering computer scientist Admiral Grace Hopper. Over the course of her military career, she traveled extensively and held multiple leadership positions, culminating with the rank of Naval Commander.
Between 1995 and 1999, Sexton played a critical role in establishing the Georgia Navy Operations command at Fort Gordon. After concluding her military service, she transitioned to academia, joining Augusta University as Professor Sexton, where she dedicated herself to teaching coding and computer science to thousands of students.
At Augusta University, she established the AU Cyber Institute in response to the relocation of U.S. Cyber Command to Fort Gordon, focusing on cybersecurity workforce development. Her efforts led to the development of a new Cyber Lab for undergraduate students, enhancing Augusta University’s status as an NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
Sexton’s influence extended to educational pathways in cybersecurity recognized by the Georgia State Board of Education, which were implemented in local high schools. She introduced NSA GenCyber Camps to high school students in Georgia and South Carolina, further promoting interest in cybersecurity among younger generations.
Her vision for cybersecurity education at Augusta University culminated in the establishment of the School of Computer and Cyber Sciences, where she served as Founding Dean. Even after retirement, she continued to contribute as a part-time educator and was appointed to the College of Education and Human Development.
Joanne Sexton was actively involved in various professional organizations, including BSides Augusta and the Fort Gordon Ladies Golf Club. She was widely regarded as a colleague, mentor, and friend within her community.
A military burial for Joanne Sexton is scheduled, with further details to be announced later. Additionally, a Celebration of Life service is planned for November 4, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at The Foundry at Rae’s Creek, located in Augusta, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to the Rutgers University Class of 1978 via the Rutgers Foundation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Augusta Chronicle Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Cybersecurity
- Newcomer Dayton Obituaries
- Google Search: cybersecurity education
- Tukios Obituary Example
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cyber Security
- Cumby Funeral Obituaries
- Google News: Joanne Sexton
- Dignity Memorial Obituaries
- Lowell Sun Obituaries
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
