Jo Heller

1951 - 2025

Jo Heller
Born: August 2, 1951 in Morrison, IL
Died: July 20, 2025 in Morrison, IL
Jo Heller, age 73, of Morrison, died unexpectedly on July 20, 2025. Following years of declining mobility, weakening strength, and deteriorating eyesight, she was regaining strength and mobility for over a year, and her last day was a great day until sudden pain hit. Her daughter lived with, cared for, and loved her.
Jo was born August 2, 1951, to Charles Birely, Jr., and Helen (Lawton) Birely. When her mother died, she lived with her sister and beloved grandmother, Katie Lawton. Following her grandmother's death, she was raised by her future adoptive parents, Laurence Wells, Jr. and Catherine (Birely) Wells, Jr. along with her father.
Jo was educated in the Morrison school system, graduating Morrison High School in 1969. She married Danny Heller in 1973. Danny died in May 1996.
She completed most coursework in the early 1970s at Sauk Valley Community College. While raising a family and making a home, she studied in the evenings, earning an associate's degree in accounting from SVCC in December 1990. She worked for RB&W and then Reliant Fastener in Rock Falls, retiring July 15, 2011.
She was a member of the Morrison United Methodist Church for over 50 years, although it has been years since she participated in activities. She collected decorative turkeys and enjoyed bowling, especially the senior league. She loved cats and dogs, caring for silly, sassy, and special pets throughout her life.
She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Heller, and several cousins. She is preceded in death by her husband, her sister (Becky Vegter), and her son (Mark Heller in May 2023).
A graveside service was accorded at Grove Hill Cemetery. Her daughter wished to deal with the personal loss in private. They had many years together talking, living life, and laughing. Memorial donations may be made to the Morrison Fire Department. The Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
To send online condolences go to www.bosmarenkes.com