Jo Ann McLennan Bowers

“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” – Psalm 16:11

Dr. Jo Ann McLennan Bowers, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord peacefully on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born on August 13, 1932, in Winnfield, Louisiana, cherished daughter of the late E.C. and Ruth McLennan. She was not just an admired radiologist but also a devoted and nurturing mother who left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Jo Ann graduated from LSU New Orleans Medical School in 1958, culminating her studies with both a B.S. and M.D. degree, and completed her radiology residency at Southern Baptist Hospital in 1961. Her pioneering spirit in a male-dominated field inspired many and paved the way for three generations of female radiologists in her family.

Affectionately known as "Granny Jo" by her family, she set a remarkable example of how to excel in one’s profession while nurturing and caring for family. Jo Ann was a member of University Baptist Church; and she exemplified the Proverbs woman—characterized by her strength, wisdom, kindness, and love for the Lord, enabling her to be a capable and confident leader in her home and community. In her leisure time, Jo Ann found joy in painting, traveling, leading Bible study, and enjoying annual family beach trips. Nevertheless, her greatest pride and joy came from her two daughters, four granddaughters, and eleven great-grandchildren, whose lives she touched so profoundly.

Jo Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.C. McLennan; and her sister, Mary Frances Scott.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Jennifer Zimmerman and Marcia Gremillion; her sons-in-law, Philip Zimmerman and John Gremillion; grandchildren Magan Zimmerman Cavalier (Adam), Rachel Zimmerman Bass (Brandon), Morgan Gremillion Barkas (Matthew), and Mackenzie Gremillion May (Ryan); and her cherished great-grandchildren, Elliot Piper, Haddon Ann, Amy Carson, and Sarah Wallace Cavalier; Graham Philip, Rosemary Ruth, and Grace Ann Bass; Ruth Mackenzie, Brooks Grant, Grace Elizabeth, and Annie Banks Barkas; and her niece Mary Ann Lyckman (John).

She leaves behind Carla Sanford, her “angel” and sister-in-Christ, who took such wonderful care of her over the last four years. Also, Lewis, her brother-in-Christ, who was so much more than a gardener and who called her “Momma”.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful caregivers at St. James Place Health and Wellness Center. There really are no words to express our gratitude for the love and care that her nurses, aides, therapists, and dining staff provided. Suzy and Judy of Hospice of Baton Rouge were God given angels to her and her family.

The family will honor Granny Jo with a private graveside service at a later date. We greatly appreciate the outpouring of love and support and ask for continued prayers as we navigate through this time of loss. Your kind words and thoughts have meant the world to us.