Jo Ann Nance

CRIDERSVILLE, OH – Jo Ann (Darnell) Nance, age 87, of Cridersville, joyfully entered eternal life on September 10th, 2025. Born in beautiful Surry County, Elkin, NC, on September 9th, 1938, to the loving Arvil and Clara Darnell, Jo Ann lived a life full of love and compassion. She married her soulmate, Sherman L. Nance, in October of 1960, and together they welcomed their beloved daughter, April L. Nance. Though both Sherman and April have since passed, their memories continue to bring joy to those who knew them. Jo Ann was also preceded in death by five cherished siblings: Eleanor Pardue, Jackie Cater, Lee Darnell, Dottie Dehner, and Ruby Wilson.

She is survived by her devoted son, Scott (Sandi Klintworth) Nance of Cumming, GA, and her adoring grandchildren, Lindsay Nance (Atlanta) and Maggie Nance (Cumming). Jo Ann's family also includes her brother, Pete Darnell (San Angelo, TX), sister, Jeannie (Ron) Mack (New Carlisle, OH), sister-in-law, Jane Gray (Lima), and brother-in-law, Cliff (Judy) Nance (Wapak), along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Jo Ann's heart overflowed with love for her family. She was always there for her husband, children, siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends, offering a listening ear and wise counsel. Her words of wisdom guided many through life's journey.

After growing up in the picturesque foothills of North Carolina, Jo Ann moved to Lima at the age of 17 and attended Lima Senior High School, graduating with the class of 1956. She began her career as an executive secretary at Superior Coach before embarking on a fulfilling 30-year career with the Lima City Schools. Jo Ann served as the secretary for Lima Senior's Principal and also worked briefly at the School Board. She retired in 1991 but continued to contribute to the community by serving on the Lima City Schools Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame and co-hosting the LSHS Retired Teachers Luncheon.

Jo Ann's greatest joy came from spending time with her children and grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nana. She often said they "make my life shine!!" An avid reader and enthusiastic card player, Jo Ann enjoyed countless hours of bridge and euchre with her wonderful friends, who she credited with helping her through life's journey.
A passionate follower of Christ, Jo Ann found guidance and comfort in the Bible. She was a long-time member of Cridersville United Methodist Church, where she oversaw greeters for several years. Jo Ann always said, "when God's ready to take me, He'll take me," and she looked forward to eternal life with a deep commitment to faith and a longing to be reunited with her dearly missed family members and friends.

Jo Ann touched all of our lives with her wisdom, guidance, friendship, faith, and especially unconditional love. She will be truly missed, but her legacy of joy and love will live on in our hearts.

In honor of Jo Ann's memory, memorial contributions may be made to Cridersville United Methodist Church.

A celebration of Jo Ann's life will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 29th, 2025, at Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, 311 West Main Street, Cridersville, Ohio with Pastor Jon Spyker officiating. Family and friends are invited to pay respects and share memories from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 29th, 2025, at the funeral home.