Willie Josephine Ricketts Mccall

Josephine Ricketts McCall, 97 of El Dorado, passed on to her heavenly home on July 12, 2011, in Columbia, TN as she traveled back from a family reunion at the Outer Banks, NC. Her life was an inspiration to many, and she was loved deeply by all who knew her. Her light shone with the love of the Lord. God’s Plan for Miss Jo, her memoir published in 2008, included going beyond the status quo. Her desire was to always be useful and of service to the world, and the Lord guided and blessed each step of her life.

She began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse in Tennessee, later in Mount Holly, AR, and eventually in the El Dorado Public Schools. She “retired” but she continued to teach for the Union County Literacy Council and First Presbyterian Sunday School and circle. She belonged to Delta Kappa Gamma, Union County Retired Teachers, and several bridge clubs. She was a world traveler and was vital and active till her last breath.

Preceding her in death was her husband, John C. McCall; parents, John P. and Mae W. Ricketts; brother, Charles Ricketts.

She is survived by her only daughter, and son-in-law, Carol and Jon Hermsen; brother Ware Ricketts; niece, Conlee Ricketts; nephew, John Ricketts; and numerous beloved cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Friday, July 15, 2011, at Young’s.

Funeral services will be 9:00 a.m. Saturday, July 16, 2011, at the First Presbyterian Church. Burial will follow at Mount Holly Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

Memorials may be made to the Haiti Fund, %First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Main, El Dorado, AR 71730.