Mrs. Jo Ann (Wilson) Powell-Messimer

She was born on June 2, 1940, in Waurika, OK, to Ora Echols Wilson and Elmer Wilson. She grew up in Dallas, graduating from Adamson High School in 1959. Her first job was at the Kreme Cup, then Cress’ department store, and finally onto Dallas Power & Light. She moved on from DP&L when her and husband, Jerry Powell, decided to build a house in Lancaster and adopt a baby girl, Beverly.

Jo Ann was a resident of Lancaster TX since 1973, and was a beloved homemaker. She loved to sew and make outfits for Beverly and her dolls. Jo Ann loved to bake and made beautifully decorated cakes for birthdays, anniversaries, and other occasions. Other hobbies included traveling, gardening, crafting, quilting, and crocheting. Later when Beverly started school, Jo Ann worked for the Lancaster Independent School District, retiring after more than 20 years of service.

Jo Ann and her husband opened their home in the early 80s becoming foster parents for many young girls. One special girl, Trina, came along and they adopted her in 1984, adding her to the family. Between foster parenting, taking kids to gymnastics, swim meets, Girl Scouts, and softball games, Jo Ann would find time to make wonderful memories with her family.

In November of 1997, Jo Ann married Ross Messimer in quaint ceremony at her home and Ross’ children, Debbie and Ron, joined in the ever growing brood.

She is survived by daughters, Beverly Powell (Bruce) and Trina Haynes nee Powell. Stepdaughter, Debbie (Worsham) Messimer, and stepson, Ron Messimer. A brother, James Wilson, sister, Jerry Powell nee Wilson (Don Powell), and former husband, Jerry L. Powell. Grandchildren: Holly Hawthorne (Dorian), Shelby Kovar-Tidwell (Richard), Emily Haynes, Wade Haynes, Kailey Haynes, Heather Worsham-Tarver, Jennifer Worsham-Gonzales, Sara Worsham-Reed, Carrie Messimer-Mount, 15 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren.

Jo Ann Messimer is preceded in death by her parents, Ora and Elmer Wilson, half-sister, Catherine Floyd, and husband, Ross Messimer.

Her passing is mourned by her extended family, including many cousins and friends made throughout the years.

The memory of Jo Ann Messimer will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.

A visitation hour for Jo Ann will be held Monday, August 7, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Laurel Land Funeral Home, 6300 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75232. A funeral service will occur Monday, August 7, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel, 6300 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75232. A committal service will occur Monday, August 7, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Restland Cemetery, 13005 Greenville Ave, Dallas, Texas 75243.

A late lunch will be served at 2pm.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.laurellanddallas.com for the Messimer family.