Jo Luck

Jo Luck, the former President and CEO of Heifer International and a pioneering public servant in Arkansas, passed away November 26, 2025, at the age of 83. Recognized for her leadership in the global fight against hunger, her efforts saved and improved the lives of over 50 million people, leaving a legacy that will continue to impact the world for generations.

Born in Little Rock to J. Merle Lemley and Annette Luck, she attended Hendrix College and earned her BA in Education from David Lipscomb College, becoming an educator who never stopped teaching, mentoring, and inspiring others. In 1978, Jo Luck became the first executive director of Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families.

In 1979, then-Governor Bill Clinton appointed her as Executive Director of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, making her among the first women to hold a cabinet-level post in the State. Over the next decade, she helped shape Arkansas's natural and cultural heritage policies, strengthened Arkansas's parks system, and elevated its tourism profile.

In 1989, she joined Heifer International as Director of International Programs and, three years later she became President and CEO. Under her leadership, Heifer grew from a modest nonprofit into a global organization with a budget exceeding $130 million, delivering sustainable agriculture and development programs that improved the lives of millions of families in more than 50 countries.

In 2010, Jo Luck received the World Food Prize for her contributions to global food security and her innovative, community-centered approach to development. She was inducted into the Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame in 2015 in recognition of her extraordinary career, vision, and service.

Jo Luck is survived by her daughter, Beth Wilson Gray (Paul) of Russellville, Arkansas; her son, Mark Wilson (Vy) of New York City; grandchildren Jenny McElroy (Justin), Zach Gray (Jess), and Ariston Gray (Matt); and great-grandchildren Grayden and Emma.

A legacy service will be held at a later date. The family requests donations to Heifer International or to Tererai Trent International, honoring her lifelong dedication to promote women's empowerment, leadership, dignity, social justice, global cooperation, and hope. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com