JoAnn Smothers Walker

Joann (Jo) Smothers Walker of Austin, Texas, passed away Wednesday, December 11th from complications from RSV. She was in and out of the hospital since October 28th. She was able to spend the last days in her home with her cats, surrounded by people who cared for her.

Jo was a woman of many talents who exemplified an independent, strong-willed, Texan. Born in Houston on August 1, 1941, she lived most of her life in Austin or Houston. She was a talented stained glass artist who ran the Fantasy Glass booth at the Renaissance Festival in Magnolia, Texas for more than 20 years with her partner of more than 50 years, Carolyn. She was an artist, teacher, property manager, investor, handywoman, and more. A collector of Disney and Western memorabilia. A life-long devotion to animals from parrots, to cats and dogs to almost any living critter – there was always a home for them. As with many UT Alumni she bled orange and remained a Longhorn supporter.

We want to thank the many nurses and doctors and St Davids and Hospice for their concern and care. A very special thank you to her devoted caregiver Benjamin Delarosa who was there for her every need in the last year and a half.

A graveside service at Oakwood Cemetery will be held at the end of January, the date to be determined. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Austin Humane Society, St. David’s Episcopal Church or a charity of your choosing.