Mary Jo Elizabeth Bell

Mary Jo grew up in Fox River Grove, Illinois. After graduating from high school she attended St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana earning a degree in Elementary Education. She later earned a Masters degree from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida.

After teaching for 2 years in the Chicago area she impulsively decided to move to South Florida for just one year. She never left. Mary Jo worked for over 30 years in the Broward County School System. In the 60s she was one of the first white teachers to work in an all black school as the District was struggling with integration. She transferred to Croissant Park Elementary School in Fort Laudedale. There she taught reading under the Title One program to At-Risk students until her retirement in 2001. She loved cooking, traveling and reading.

Mary Jo is survived by her life partner of 33 years, Byron Langenfass. Although she had no children of her own Mary Jo loved and was loved by her many official and unofficial godchildren as well as a plethora of friends around the world.

A private celebration of life is planned.