Jo Ann James

Jo Ann James, of Pauls Valley, passed away February 17, 2025 in Norman, Oklahoma at the age of 80 years.
Jo Ann Thompson was born February 17, 1945 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma to Joe Bob and Bernice Thompson. She was raised in Pauls Valley. Because of their work, her parents moved from time to time but always returned to call Pauls Valley their home. She furthered her education by earning her Cosmetology Certificate. For over thirty years, she was passionate about her work as a Hairdresser in Pauls Valley.
During her childhood travels, Jo Ann found one of her favorite places in the world, Cottonwood Lake in Buena Vista, Colorado. Over the years, she was able to venture back to Buena Vista, sharing her experiences with her kids and grandkids. She also enjoyed her time in the place she called home, the Tate Homestead.
Jo Ann was steadfast in her faith. She found joy and comfort in scriptures and gospel music. For most of her adult life, she attended Assembly of God Church in Pauls Valley, where she served in music ministry with Brother and Sister Dean. She worked with them to spread her love of Christ through music, by visiting local nursing homes. Her grandchildren have many fond memories of singing with her.
Jo Ann enjoyed the simple things in life. She found happiness in art, music, decorating, and attending to her flower garden and fish pond. She was passionate about all of her animals, especially birds. Having a creative soul, she loved crocheting, singing, painting, and coloring. Her charitable heart was an inspiration to us all. She enjoyed crocheting hats and scarves to deliver to hospitals and homeless shelters. She also gifted many cherished, handmade items to her loved ones. Above all, Jo Ann's greatest joy was spending time with her family and close friends. We all know she loved us fiercely and unconditionally.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Bob and Bernice Thompson; brothers, Anthony (Tony) Thompson and Ricky Thompson; an infant son: Greg James; grandparents, Hobb and Belle Tate; and her favorite uncle Gary Lynn Tate.
Her surviving family include her children, Stacy Delaplain and husband, Bill; Mark James and wife, Vickie; Gary James and wife, Amanda; and 8 grandchildren, Jonathon Bowie, Aaron Delaplain, and Natalie Delaplain; Ashlee Hines-Hill, Kayla James, and Dairianne James; and Justyce James and Lauren James, as well as many great grandchildren; her brother, John Thompson and wife, Maggie; nephew, Paul Thompson; sister-in-law, Linda Thompson; and nieces, Sarah Thompson Durham, and Jamie Thompson.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the Mt. Olivet Cemetery officiated by her granddaughter, Natalie Delaplain. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery under the direction of Stufflebean-Coffey Funeral Home. We invite you to send words of comfort to the family at www.stufflebeanfuneralhome.com.
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