Jo Ann Vanhook Smith

Jo Ann Smith passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the age of 85. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Jo Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas F. Van Hook and Elsie Gilcrease; husband John David Smith and seven siblings. Left to cherish her memory are her brother, Walter Van Hook; daughter, Donna Gail Montgomery; son, Kenneth D. Hammett (Theresa), and children, Kenneth B (Crystal) Tripp and Gage, Bradley, Vanessa (Samual), Jackson and Connor; daughter, Karen (Pat) and children Nicholas, Nathan, and Elyssa, five grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren. JoAnn was loved by all her family including many nieces and nephews.

Jo Ann’s career spanned over 38 years at Pearland State Bank. She was dedicated to her bank family and her role as Customer Service Representative.

As a native of Natchitoches, Jo Ann enjoyed returning to visit with her family. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was an excellent cook and had a special flare for homestyle cooking.

Jo Ann was a talented artist and displayed her creativity in both paintings and floral arrangements. Jo Ann spent much of her leisure time reading books. Jo Ann’s love, talent and dedication will be greatly missed.

Lastly, her family would like to extend a special thanks to Mary Selman and Eva Zamora for all their loving support and care.

A memorial service to remember a life well lived will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches, LA.