M. Jo "Lebanon" Dickens

Maida Jo Dickens was born October 1, 1951 in Springfield, Missouri to J.A. and LaVern Nash Baker. She departed this life Saturday, November 22, 2025 in Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri at the age of seventy-four years, one month and twenty-one days.

Jo was raised in Springfield and was a graduate of Hillcrest High School Following graduation, Jo was united in marriage to her true love and best friend, Richard Dickens on October 3, 1969. They lovingly raised their four children and celebrated fifty years of wonderful memories prior to his passing on August 29, 2020.

In addition to her husband, Richard, Jo is preceded in death by her parents, J.A. and LaVern.

Jo is survived by her children, Maria Estle and her husband Travis of Lebanon, Missouri, Cathy Hall and her husband William of Ripley, Mississippi, Wendy Dickens and her husband Chris of Lebanon, Missouri, Ricky Dickens and his wife Hannah of Grovespring, Missouri; ten grandchildren, Deborah, Leah, Izzy, Brooke, Elisha, Elijah, R-Ja, Avaya, Garrett, and Austin; two sisters, Vicky Huckaby of Scottsville, Kentucky and Rebecca Kynion of St. Louis, Missouri; and other relatives and friends.

Jo and Richard lived on their farm in the Brownfield Community for over forty-five years. She loved the farm life and enjoyed helping Richard with the chores and was good at finding cows that may have gone missing. She also loved crocheting, bird watching and reading.

Jo was known for her kindness and generosity. She was hard working and always supportive of her family and loved ones and was present in their lives. She was known for her wonderful cooking and hosting memorable get-togethers and family holiday celebrations.

We remember and honor the life of a devoted wife, beloved mother, and cherished grandmother. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. Her faith and kindness touched everyone who knew her. She was a member of Grace Baptist Church and lived her life with faith in God and purpose. Her legacy of faith, family and love will continue to live on through the lives she touched.

A memorial to Mt. Salem Cemetery has been established and donations may be made at the funeral home.