Jo Ann Jones

Born in Kansas City the day after Christmas in 1928 to Allen T. and Helen E. Compton, Jo Ann’s life touched eleven decades. She raised two daughters, participated in many community art fairs and eventually eased into retirement with her husband, James O. Jones. She shared her wit and gusto for life with all, and enjoyed continuing to teach art to young friends in the neighborhood. Jo Ann’s family plans to celebrate her life in a small, private gathering later this year.

Jo Ann attended the University of Kansas where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. A watercolor painter, avid gardener, and lover of all things nature-related, especially birds, she exhibited in local and regional art fairs including those held at the Plaza, Westport and Ward Parkway shopping center.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James O. Jones, and brother Allen T. Compton, most recently of Anchorage, Alaska. JoAnn is survived by and in the love of her daughters Penny Selle (JIm) and Liz Ferron (Bob), and grandchildren Kevin Selle, Anna Selle, Elise Ferron, Rebecca Ferron, and Sarah Ferron.

Jo Ann lives on in every painting and drawing she made, which can be found in the homes of loved ones throughout the country. Some of Jo Ann’s artwork is archived in The Brooklyn Art Museum’s Sketchbook project thanks to her grandchild, Anna Selle who recently made a trip to check it out, literally! From what she wrote on the back cover of the sketchbook, submitted in 2019, in her own words: “Jo Ann Jones is a 90 year old artist who works in watercolor and pencil. She specializes in floral subjects and anything else related to nature - leaves, trees, etc. She has exhibited in local [art] shows where she has won awards for best of show. She is now retired and enjoys her family, and her home which is situated on two wooded acres in the city. Best to all, Jo Ann.”

Contributions to the National Audubon Society are welcomed in her honor and can be made by phoning 1-844-428-3826 - or connecting at: https://act.audubon.org/a/memorial-gift?ms=digital-fund-web-website_nas-memorial-howtohelp_20201200.