Josephine Petrosky "Jo" Smith

We met in 1999 and bonded instantly, as I'm sure she did with most she met.
She was one of the most unselfish, giving ladies I have ever had the privilege of knowing. We shared a love for animals. I loved her.

I have known Jo and Elmer since I was 5 years old - 57 years - I loved both of them so much and have such fond and happy memories of them as a child - Jo and I have always been kindred spirits with our love for animals - she would never let one go hungry if it made its way to her house. Jo was an amazing person who was selfless and always ready to jump up and organize anything that was needed. The Holy Family Guild that we all belonged to lasted for many many years, in part, because of her. She was fearless and travelled every part of the world, much of it on her own after Elmer's passing. She was so devout in her Catholic faith and is now at peace with her beloved Elmer. There will never be another Jo Smith - she was one of a very special kind.

"Jo was a dependable neighbor, devout Catholic, and lover of nature. Those who did not know her well referred to her as the Bird Lady. For the last couple of years whe have missed her routine of spreading birdseed in her driveway feeding breakfast to twenty or thirty birds. I will miss her honest opinions and salty language."

Jo will forever be remembered as a co-founder, with the Vincentian priests, of the Family Guilds in St. Cecilia parish.