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Jo Wilson Obituary

Jo A. Wilson

Jo A. Wilson passed away on May 31, 2011, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A Tallahassee native, Jo attended Leon High School and FSU. After graduation, she relocated to Trenton, Florida, and married Dan E. Wilson. Dan and Jo celebrated their 35th anniversary this year.

Jo devoted her life to teaching and advocating for students with special needs in Gilchrist and Levy Counties. After teaching for many years, Jo became a Staffing Coordinator for Gilchrist County Schools. She retired last June.

A faithful Christian and inspiration to others, Jo was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Chiefland. She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, and socializing. Jo is truly loved by everyone who knew her and will be greatly missed.

Jo is preceded in death by her parents, Gladys and Leonard Allen, and her eldest son, John Franklin, M.D. She is survived by her husband, Dan Wilson; sister, Sue Slaughter; children Julie Pfluke and husband Paul, Lauren Franklin, Ben Wilson and partner Tommy Owen, and Lorianna Wilson and partner Celine Hertz; and grandchildren Pep, Amanda, Max, Daniel, and John Luke.

The family is extremely grateful for the exceptional, compassionate care Jo was given by the staff at Shands at UF and Haven Hospice in Chiefland.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday June 4th at First United Methodist Church, 707 North Main Street, Chiefland.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the University of Florida Foundation, Inc., 2012 West University Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32604-2425. Please designate funds to be used for the Franklin Sarcoma Research Fund.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tallahassee Democrat on Jun. 2, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Jo Wilson

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Karen Philman

June 7, 2011

Deepest sympathy to Jo's family. She was a wonderful mentor and friend. I learned so much from her. She will be deeply missed.

Bonnie Kiser

June 7, 2011

I'll remember Jo cheering our girls on playing volleyball. She was so much fun. She was so proud of her kids. My love, thoughts and prayers for her whole family.

christie Webster

June 6, 2011

Mrs. Jo was such a special person. Loved her dearly. Always had a smile for you when you saw her. Will miss her dearly. Will be praying for her family.

carolyn thomas

June 6, 2011

Mrs.Jo was the best teacher that anyone could ever ask for .I worked with her for many years ayt Bell ELementary school .Mrs.Jo loved her family more than anything in this world and her grand kids .We will miss her so much and will be praying for you all.Mrs.Jo's friend Carolyn Thomas.

Evelyn Barratt

June 5, 2011

Jo believed in her family, in her students and friends. She believed in the potential of ALL persons. The world is a better place for her presence among us. Thank you, Jo.

Dan & Debbie Corbin

June 5, 2011

Sweet Sweet lady,
I only knew Ms Jo from speaking with her on the phone many many times. She was a very sweet lady, always thought of others first. I am sure many will miss Ms Jo. I only wish I could have met her in person. Jo you will be missed.

Terri Norris

June 4, 2011

Mrs. Jo Wilson,
Was a wonderful lady, she always had a smile on her face and kind words to give. She will truly be missed. Mrs. Wilson will always have a place in my heart.

Billy and Kay DeVore

June 4, 2011

Jo was a good friend over the years I knew her. She always had a smile. May God comfort you as you mourn your loss. Cherish the many wonderful memories. Jo will be missed.

Michelle Smith

June 3, 2011

Sweet Sweet Jo,
I will miss you and your sweet spirit. You made such a difference in the lives of so many children and families. If a family knew you were on their child's planning team, they always knew it would be ok; Not once would a decision or statement be made from you regarding a child that wasnt in their best interest. Finally, the difference you have made in my own life with my children has been so special to me and lifechanging for them. During some of what may have been your darkest days, you reached out to them to help them or me. What a great Mom, friend, and educator mentor you have been to me for 20 years. Thank you and Love * Love * Love You :) Michelle

Nancy and Conrad Hauk

June 3, 2011

Jo was a spirited and spiritual lady. She had special vision in those big blue eyes; she could see beyond differences and embraced the wholeness of each person. She could see beyond norms and rules and often could think "outside the box". She could see potential right alongside reality and created new ways of learning and living for many during her career. She always saw the bright side and made happiness and fun out of whatever life brought her way. These are special gifts, and we appreciated her. As our Mentor and Leader she gave freely of her expertise and care, and her dedication has benefitted many. She has left a legacy of assessments and supports which help our neediest students. We are grateful for knowing her.

Tanya Rood

June 3, 2011

Jo was a great role model for me as I started my teaching career many years ago. I have wonderful memories of her active and energetic personality during IEP meetings or staffings. Her knowledge and legacy will be carried on by those who knew her.

Jessica Wright

June 3, 2011

I am saddened by the loss of Mrs. Jo. I pray they find a cure for this awful disease. She loved her family and friends so much! She is with John now and they are watching over us! Rest in peace, Mrs. Jo.

Peggy Jones/Sternad

June 3, 2011

Jo my friend, you inspired me to be all I could be. With your sweet loving nature you nurtured all who were fortunate to meet you. I will miss you here on this Earth. But I know you now dance in Heaven with that beautiful loving soul that you were blessed to be. I love you with all that is in me. I will miss you now, but I know I will see you again.

Betty Durden

June 3, 2011

I will greatly miss seeing Jo's great smile and kindness to the students. She always made me feel the need for more compassion.
Dan, I am so sorry for your loss. I know that God can take you through this tough time in your life. Best wishes. My prayers are with you.

Sue Reed

June 3, 2011

Jo had an infectious smile, and a radiant spirit.

Dianne Lovett

June 3, 2011

To Jo's famiy and friends:
Jo was an example to me. She had compassion and love for every one that she met. I loved working with her. She was like a role model for me. She was gentle, kind, but could be very adamant about her students -- and I loved that. She was always wanting the best for the weakest children and she tried her best to see they got the best education possible. I want you to know that I loved Jo. I will miss her tremendously and she will always be a part of me. She was in my prayers and I honestly think that there is a celebration in heaven because that is where she is. Sincerely, Dianne Lovett

June 3, 2011

Jo--you fought a good fight--you finished the race--thank you for ALWAYS having a smile on your face--no matter what--and thank you for your support and inspiration to all of us here in the Gilchrist County School System! Jo--- you are among angels now! Happy Homecoming!!!
With Great Sadness
Debbie Rush
Gilchrist County Teacher

June 3, 2011

Mr. Wilson and family, Mrs. Jo was a true inspiration to me as she exibited such courage and peace of mind in every situation. She was a true help to me in the classroom, making sure that I was "overseeing" the needs of all my students. Her kind words and encouragement will be greatly missed. God bless your family. Sincerely, Wanda Clemons

Lisa Hudson

June 3, 2011

Jo was so compassionate and kind to me after the loss of my son. She would give me a hug and that great smile of hers. She will truly be missed by many.

June 3, 2011

Mr. Wilson,
I know my friend is in the presents of our Lord and Savior. My heart felt sorrow and prayers are with you. I will greatly miss her . I love you

Yvonne Sturkes
Shands Cancer Center

Crystal Rodgers

June 3, 2011

Mrs. Jo, you are greatly loved and will be greatly missed! We pray you have found rest and peace and are celebrating your brand new, pain & cancer free body! With love from Crystal & Nancy

Michele Baker-Chumley

June 3, 2011

Mrs. Wilson RIP!! You will never be forgotten..You will always be in my heart

Keri Pass

June 3, 2011

God Bless you Mrs. Wilson, RIP

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