Jo Ann Ross

She and her younger sister, Carolyn, whom she is survived by, once recalled wonderful memories of Atoka, where the family owned a drug store. At that time, there were no discount stores; the drug store was the center of social activity, shopping, and clinical needs (complete with a soda fountain and eventually a juke box). “Skeet” was the pharmacist, counselor, and an un-official doctor at times! Jo Ann often said, later in life, “If I could only go back to Atoka.”

It was a simple, non-technological time. There was no TV, only radio, appliances that required blocks of ice, and rotary phones with “party-lines”, and living through the tragedy and sacrifices of several wars, starting with World War II. The positives were a close knit community with her childhood friends of over 70 years, going to Falls Creek church camp while camping under an actual funeral tent, and hanging out at the hamburger joint (but not being able to dance due to the primarily Baptist community!) She loved to participate in band, where she played the clarinet, and singing in the choir which she continued throughout her life. She also learned to drive at 14 years old, which she tried to pass on to her granddaughter Jennifer! These hobbies, interests, passions, traits and determination in succeeding; not giving up, “no matter” what the cost, she has passed on to her daughter, Carol, as well as Grandchildren Jennifer Lowrey, Zachary Marino, Brian Marino; Great-Grandchildren, Hayden Farrar, Houston Farrar, and miss Kinley Marino— portrayed the traits and spirit of Jo Ann and Robert. Thanks to Jason Lowrey, who has been so supportive of Jennifer and their boys; and Shauna Boyd, who has been Jo Ann’s family / caregiver / familiar face when Carol was at work. It warms our hearts that Jo Ann could spend her last few years in a place where she lived with all of her possessions and familiar faces.

Carol was born while Robert served in the Army. Her younger sister, Nancy, was born 4 years later, but did not live but 8 years. This tragedy and Roberts’s job, which moved the family states wide every few years, made the family very close in their interest, activities, and needs. Watching television shows on one TV, having one phone, and eating out rarely is what made the family close. Raising poodles and training them in obedience made for a “happy” family life.

Jo Ann demanded a family vacation every year if she had to work. Partly due to that, Carol was able to see most of the states and even some of the world. She became less shy and more social like her mother. The couple were also excellent communicators, good listeners, and active in volunteering in their community and church. They believed that the most important possessions were their faith and relationships with others.

Jo Ann moved in with Carol several years after Robert’s passing in 2012. Breaking her hip, then not being able to continue to drive independently were very traumatic. The first few years, Jo Ann and Carol thoroughly enjoyed watching Downton Abbey, Hallmark movies, eating out, and traveling. She loved her electric fireplace and couch, as well as watching the birds outside her window. She also had a deep love for her devoted Yorkie’s. These two laid at her feet when she peacefully went off on her eternal journey to be with Robert, and other family and friends who she sorely missed. We are blessed to be touched by Jo Ann and Robert.

A visitation for Jo Ann will be held Friday, November 12, 2021 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 13313 North Kelley, Oklahoma City, OK 73131.

A funeral service will occur Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 2:00 PM at New Covenant Christian Church, 12000 N. Rockwell Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73162.

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