Jo attended San Angelo H.S. and graduated in the class of 1951. She graduated from San Angelo College in 1953. Jo worked for a utility company for four and a half years and was financially able to continue her education. She received her B.S. in Elementary Education from West Texas State in 1959 and her M.A. in Learning Disabilities from Southwest Texas State in 1968.
Jo began her career in teaching Special Education at San Angelo ISD in 1959. Jo taught at San Jacinto, Santa Rita and Crockett Elementary schools. Later, San Angelo ISD had a new position for Jo. Her job was to teach elementary school teachers about special education.
Jo was a proud member of the National Education Association, Texas State Teachers Association, Texas Classroom Teachers Association, and Kappa Kappa Iota Sorority.
Jo had a passion for teaching. Her philosophy of education was to teach individuals. In Jo’s own words, “The teacher must be guided by the fact that all children do not learn in the same ways.” Jo was awarded the Elementary Teacher of the Year in 1968.
Jo Abbott had many interests and adventures. She loved to travel, especially in an RV. Jo enjoyed boating and teaching her nephews and nieces how to water ski. Jo followed and supported the ASU softball team, the Belles. An article was written in the local paper about how she and her best friend, Sue Lawdermilk, were at every game. She also loved the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. When she wasn't traveling, teaching, or watching sports, Jo could be found ranching cattle and sheep or hunting.
Jo Abbott was a person of great humility. She was also known for her wit and sense of humor. She knew how to love, challenge and gently push. However, she kept reasonable expectations for herself and others. She will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family asked that you make a memorial donation to a charity for children. The family would also like to thank Stephanie Melendez CMA, Gentiva hospice, Sagecrest, and Lyndale Assisted Living for all their care.
Visitation will be held from 4-6 PM on Sunday December 1, 2024 at Johnson's Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Monday December 2, 2024 at Johnson's Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers for the service will be David Alley, Larry Alley and Charles Watson. Honorary pallbearers are Paul Lawdermilk and Robert Moreno.
Jo was proceeded in death by her parents, Martha Lou (Byars) Abbott and George Leo Abbott; sisters, Charlotte Alleta Dana and Glenda Lou Alley.
Jo is survived by her nieces and nephews, Milton Dana, Grace Dana, Mitzi Alley, Sharon Moreno, David Alley and Larry Alley.
