Mary Jo Holsonback

Mary Jo Holsonback, 88, of Joanna, SC, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025 at National Health Care in Clinton.

Born on May 13, 1937, in Newberry, SC, Mary Jo was the daughter of the late Mary and Joe Johnson. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Willie Clifton (Bud) Holsonback. Together, they built a loving home in Joanna, where she lived for over 60 years before moving to Langston Square and later to NHC in Clinton.

A longtime member of Joanna Baptist Church, Mary Jo lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. She retired from Joanna-Woodson Elementary School, where she worked as the cafeteria manager. In that role, she cared deeply for the students and staff she served, always offering a warm smile and a kind word.

Mary Jo is survived by her three children: Billy Holsonback (Michelle) of Clinton, Cindy Jacobs (Jimmy) of Clinton, and Tommy Holsonback (Lori) of Clinton. She also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Cliff Holsonback (Lindsay), Jennifer Holsonback, and Jessica Jacobs, Jordan Holsonback (Avery), Ashley Jacobs, and Alex Holsonback (Marielena); and eight great-grandchildren who brought her much joy. She is also survived by her sister, Doris Whitmire of Joanna, as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the care Mary Jo received in her later years and invites friends and loved ones to honor her memory by making memorial donations to First Baptist Church of Joanna, 301 Magnolia Street, Joanna, SC 29351 or to a charity of their choice.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Gray Funeral Home Chapel of Clinton at 3:00 PM with Rev. Austin Williams and Mr. Buddy Bridges officiating. The family will greet friends from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the funeral home prior to the service. Burial will follow at Pinelawn Memory Gardens.

The family will be at the home of Mary Jo’s daughter, 404 W. Maple Street, Clinton, SC 29325.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Holsonback family with services.