Jo Ann Chernet

In Loving Memory of Jo Ann E. Chernet

Jo Ann Chernet, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Ocean Township, surrounded by love, on Tuesday, March 3, at the age of 76.

Born on June 19, 1949 in Long Branch, NJ, Jo Ann lived a life rooted in kindness, strength, and deep devotion to her family. She had a way of making people feel seen and cared for, whether through her warm smile, her thoughtful words, or the countless ways she showed up for those she loved.

She grew up in Ocean Township and was proud to be educated through the Ocean Township school system. She went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree from Glassboro State College. A devoted educator, she spent 31 years as a second-grade teacher at Southard School in Howell Township, where she touched countless young lives with patience, compassion, and a true love of teaching.

Above all, Jo Ann was a wife, mother and grandmother. She loved fiercely, gave selflessly, and supported unconditionally. Her daughter and grandchildren were her greatest pride, and her love will remain a guiding light in their lives forever. She taught them selflessness, resilience, and generosity, not just through words, but through the way she lived every day.

Jo Ann found joy in spending time with family & friends, going out to eat, shopping, going to the beach, knitting, traveling, and reading.

She was preceded in death by her parents Howard and Anna Steen and her loving husband of 32 years, Steven Chernet.

She is survived by her daughter, Amy Reilly and husband John of Howell, granddaughter, Abigail Chernet and grandson, Maverick Reilly of Howell, her brother Jay Steen and his wife Wendy of PA, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.

Family and friends are invited to view from 4 to 7pm on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at the Ely Funeral Home, Neptune. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 11-12pm at the Ely Funeral Home, Neptune with an interment to follow at 12:30pm in Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls.

Flowers are welcome. Donations in memory of Jo Ann Chernet may be directed to VNA Health Group, Attn: Philanthropy Department, 3600 State Route 66, FL 4, Neptune, NJ 07753 or: https://vnahg.org

Please specify you would like your gift directed to hospice care or area of greatest need. The family would like to thank the VNA Hospice Staff for their guidance, care, and support at the end stages of Jo Ann's life.

Though our hearts are broken, we are endlessly thankful for the time we had with her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.