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Jo Ann Douglas Obituary

June 14, 1943 - November 21, 2013 Jo Ann Savitt Douglas of Palm Springs, California, passed away on November 21st, 2013 at her home in Palm Springs, surrounded by her family after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. The daughter of famed 1940's bandleader Jan Savitt, Jo Ann was born in New York City on June 14, 1943. Jo Ann was married to film producer Joel Douglas. Prior to her marriage, she worked as an Associate in Joel's company Legends and Icons. She was also an interior decorator, art dealer and headed Swete Air, a company specializing in hotel room accessories. Jo Ann had two daughters Jan and Marissa from a previous marriage. She was the daughter-in-law of Kirk Douglas and Diana Douglas Webster, and the sister-in-law of Michael and Peter Douglas. She is survived by her daughter Marissa and husband Cameron, and two grandchildren Charles and Lea. Jo Ann will always be remembered for her fierce loyalty, honesty and spirituality. There will be a memorial service on Friday, December 13th at 2:30pm at The Sacred Heart Church in Palm Desert. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jo Ann's name to the Sacred Heart School Scholarship Fund, 43775 Deep Canyon Rd, Palm Desert, CA 92260.

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Published by Los Angeles Times on Dec. 6, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
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Jennifer Kessler

November 23, 2014

I will always remember your grace. And always remember your patients your intentions were always pure and logical to me. Thank you for the time that we spent together. I love you and know your spirit is safe and protected.

December 17, 2013

Dear Jo - my life long friend - I'll miss our lunches at the Daily Grill - our sharing books - our laughs and serious conversations - and most of all, our friendship. Sleep tight and I will see you on the other side. XOXO Kris

Memorial pictures

David and Patti Caine

December 13, 2013

JoAnn was wonderfully pleasant in person and a joy to talk with. We grieve for the hole in the hearts of Joel and Marisa. The memorial service was a nice tribute to JoAnn and a pleasure to attend with so many that loved her. We know she is at peace now with the Lord and that is a comfort.

Mary Jane Lepo

December 8, 2013

I am so saddened to hear of Joann's passing.
She was an extraordinary person, always with a smile, always ready give of herself. She loved life and loved her family and friends. Losing her eldest daughter, Jan, in a horrific accident crushed her world with such pain. Joann chose the high road and did not show her pain and grief. Her positive spirit prevailed. Totally devoted to her grandchildren and family this beautiful person will be so sadly missed. We have the consolation of knowing her beautiful spirit is free of pain and dwells in loving serenity.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loving family. She was our friend.
Mary Jane Lepo,
CatherineLepo Ray Hojem

young

December 7, 2013

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

December 7, 2013

We will miss Jo Ann so much. I have known Jo Ann since we were at St. Charles elementary and then Providence High School. She and Joel were part of our "Big. Chill" group that get together twice a year. Will not be the same without Jo Ann's smiling face. God bless. Penny McQuattie Hill

Mary Snaer

December 6, 2013

I know this is such a blow to your family, especially at this time of year. I didn't know Jo Ann but Joel may remember my husband Bill Snaer from Our Lady of the Lake and Sacred Heart choirs. Bill died on November 9, so I know exactly what you are going through. November 21 would have been our 54th anniversary. Your petite, beautiful Jo Ann will never leave the memories of your family. If there is anything comforting, it is that her suffering is over. You are certainly on my prayer list.

December 6, 2013

Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow, you are in our prayers. May the families and friends cherish cherish the memories of Jo Ann.

Stacy and Jim Jacob

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