Mary Jo Alms

On September 25, 2023, Mary Jo Hannan Alms entered eternal life. For three years she courageously fought her ovarian cancer diagnosis in order to spend more time with her loved ones. Mary Jo died peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

Born January 26,1946, in St Louis, MO, Mary Jo was the daughter of the of the late Patrick and Josephine Hannan. She was predeceased by her siblings: David King, sister in law Betty King, Claire Audrain, brother in law Vincent Audrain, and sister in law Sharon King.

Mary Jo is survived by her husband Bob and their two children, Stephen Alms (Kellie) and Jennifer Alms (Kevin) along with two adored grandchildren, Conner Alms and Rylie Alms. She is also survived by her brother Phillip King, nieces and nephews: David King, Linda (Bart) Green, Kathy (David) Pavlesic, Karen (Spenser) Langley, Vincent (Sandy) Audrain and their families.

Mary Jo graduated from Academy of the Visitation High School in 1964 and Nazareth College in 1968 with a degree in Elementary education. Following graduation, she taught in the Hazelwood School District in St. Louis.

Mary Jo met Bob on a blind date in 1967 set up by her neighbor. Knowing her mother would never approve a true blind date, their friend stretched the truth and said they met at a previous gathering. They dated long distance while Bob lived in Atlanta and while he served in Vietnam. Upon returning, they were married November 21,1969. In 1981, Mary Jo and Bob moved from St Louis to Dunwoody, Georgia, where they raised their two children, Steve and Jenny. The family of four simply loved being together whether traveling or enjoying her favorite family trips camping.

Over many years Mary Jo was a “second mom” to numerous friends of Steve and Jenny. She listened carefully and cared deeply. Her perceptive questions helped many young people explore their own lives and relationships. This “extended family” enjoyed seeing their photos on Mary Jo’s refrigerator along with those of Steve and Jenny, and frequently checked to be sure their own photo was still displayed. Mary Jo had the gift of hospitality, and her house was always open.

Mary Jo always saw the humor in things. When she was tickled, her laughter was loud and long—you knew she was tickled. You simply had to join in the fun!

For many years Mary Jo worked at the Japanese Embroidery Center in Atlanta where she developed a keen eye for the beauty of the lovely art form of Japanese embroidery.

Mary Jo enjoyed traveling, antiquing, museums, exploring small towns, the mountains and accompanying Bob to his airline memorabilia shows. If something was important to her loved ones, it was important to Mary Jo.

Her pride and joy were her two grandchildren who affectionately called her Mama. While the children were young, she was a hands-on grandmother, often on the floor playing with Conner & Rylie. Her time was always intentional as she planned out nature walks, fishing, crafts and outdoor activities. She was extremely proud of their accomplishments and seeing them grow into incredible young adults.

Mary Jo was a treasured friend to many and will be deeply missed. A special thanks to all of her dear family, friends, Visitation Academy Alumni and Atlanta Cancer Care team for all of their support and love.

A celebration of Mary Jo’s life will be held at H.M. Patterson & Son- Arlington Chapel in Sandy Springs, GA. The family will greet friends from 1pm-2pm. The service will follow at 2pm followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary Jo’s memory to American Cancer Society or Lighthouse Family Retreat which was an important part of the families’ outreach.