Jo Anne Spencer
1956 - 2025
Jo Anne Spencer
1956 - 2025
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Jo Anne Spencer Obituary
Born on April 20, 1956, Jo Anne grew up in Fort Mitchell, Virginia. She exemplified a lifelong commitment to excellence and justice. Jo Anne graduated summa cum laude from Old Dominion University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree before earning her Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1982. Her remarkable career was defined by her unwavering dedication to the legal field. Jo Anne served as Assistant Commonwealth Attorney for Chesapeake from 1986 to 1994 and as Deputy Commonwealth Attorney for Suffolk from 1994 to 1999. She later transitioned into private practice and served as a substitute judge, embodying fairness and integrity in every role she undertook.
Jo Anne is lovingly remembered by her siblings Sonny Musgrove (Myrtie), Tina Moore (Charlie), Michael Pilkerton (Kathy), Anne Spencer Jenkins, Bo Spencer (Cheryl), Donna Spencer Burch (Kirby), Jane Spencer Gross (Levi); and her nieces and nephews Heather Krauss (John), David Burch, Amanda Spencer O'Reilly (Sam) and many others. She shared a special bond with her dearest friends Teresa Plummer and Sondra Stallard. Her treasured Shih Tzus, Tucker and Sophie, also brought immense joy to her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Julia Spencer and B.M. Spencer, Jr., as well as her sisters Barbara Etchison (Luther) and Judith Miller.
Jo Anne's legacy is one of intellect, wisdom, kindness, humor and enduring love for all of those privileged to be counted among her friends and family. May her memory be a blessing to those she touched throughout her life and serve as a guiding light for generations to come.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to share stories and memories of Jo Anne's vibrant spirit, as we gather in the comfort of her home located at 509 Aguila Court, Chesapeake, VA 23322.
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Jennifer Stanton, Esquire
June 5, 2025
I worked with Jo Anne in the Chesapeake Commonwealth´s attorneys office in the early 90´s. She was a solid prosecutor and always ready to lend a hand. Rest in peace, girl.
Chris Johnston
June 3, 2025
I just found out about Jo's passing. I am so sorry to hear...My heart goes out to Jane, Donna and the rest of the family. I know she will be missed greatly. I know I will miss her laugh and her fiery attitude. I always loved her. She was a great friend.
Cyndi Garner Gordon
February 7, 2025
Joan as we called her was born one month and 7 days along with her twin Jane before me. We grew up together until I moved away. We were thick as thieves. Love them both.
Ebony Johnson
February 6, 2025
I met JoAnne while working for Chesapeake Circuit Court, to know her was to love her. My condolences to the family.
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Jay Wise
February 6, 2025
We spent many a good time together at Nags Head and Kerr Lake. Times that I will remember forever...Miss u lady... Jay Wise
Sherri Clayton
February 5, 2025
It was always a pleasure working with you. You were the sweetest. You will truly be missed. My condolences and prayers to your family.
Rannie Brown
February 4, 2025
I had the honoring of working with Jo Anne in the Chesapeake Circuit Court. I always called her Bahama Momma. She was a delightful person and always so much fun. My condolences to her family . R.Brown
Kristi Wooten
February 4, 2025
I'm very sorry to hear about Jo Anne's passing. We have shared some great stories over the years. I love how much she loved a good piece of jewelry, a pretty handbag, or a fancy shoe. The legal community will miss her.
John Medley
February 4, 2025
Jo Anne was unforgettable, with a truly caring heart. Even though we sometimes lost touch for years, every conversation was the same, full of laughter & open caring for a dear friend. I miss you Jo Anne, continue Rest In Paridise
Spencer Crowder
February 4, 2025
Quite a lady. I'm proud to have grown up with her.
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