Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Jo Gemma Obituary
69, of Dover and formerly of Canton died Wednesday evening, Dec. 5, 2012 in Union Hospital at Dover following an unexpected illness. She was a retired employee of Jones Pharma Inc. Born June 16, 1943 in Macon County, Tenn., she was the daughter of the late Ottis and Marion (Stevens) Kirby. She was also preceded in death by her husband James Gemma in 1987 and a brother, Rick Kirby. Jo enjoyed collecting antiques.
She will be sadly missed by her family including two sons, Rocco (Debbie) Gemma of Dover and Nino (Carolyn) Gemma of Canton; two grandsons, Dominic and Zachary; along with two sisters, Alice Jean (Glenn) Barnett and Carolyn Kirby, both of Canton; and a brother, William (Eleanor) Kirby of Louisville, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews.
Pastor Brian Flood will officiate private services in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at Dover. Those who may wish to express a fond memory of Jo may sign the online guestbook by visiting the "obituaries and flowers" link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Ave. S.W., New Philadelphia, OH 44663.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jo Gemma
Barb Sologiuc (Root)
December 12, 2012
I am sending my deepest condolances to Jo's family on behalf of my sister and I. I was a neighbor while growing up on 4th St NE and have fond memories of Jo and her family. My sister Rose Brooks (Root) would also talk to Jo on the phone often. We had hoped to get together with Jo, but it was not to be. You have our deepest sympathy.
Carla/Rosalie Brooks
December 12, 2012
Rocco and Nino, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My mother Rosalie Brooks (Root) and Jo were good friends. I remember going to your house to visit, while they had coffee and talked. My mother is very sadden by your loss! You have our deepest sympathy! You will both be in our thoughts and prayers.
MARLENE MAGO
December 11, 2012
WE ARE SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE PASSING OF JO. I WENT TO SCHOOL HER HUSBAND JIM ,BUT MY HUSBAND KNEW HER FROM THE ANTIQUE SHOW AT THE FAIRGROUNDS. YOU HAVE OUR HEART FELT SYMPATHY." GOD BLESS" THE FAMILY. MERLE & MARLENE MAGO
carole horton/ibarra
December 11, 2012
My heart felt sympathy goes out to Rocco and Nino. (how she loved her boys) Jo was my best friend in high school and I lost touch with her a little over 15 years ago and this year we finally reconnected with each other. I had been trying for a long time and finally found her again. We talked, laughed and even cried a little bit and stayed on the phone for over 2 hours. She was the best person and such a good friend I loved her and will miss her dearly. I'm so glad we got to "meet again", but so sorry we couldn't have found each other earlier. She said she'd even think about coming out to visit. I knew that was a long shot, but we would have had a great time. My love goes out to the whole family,
William Haigh
December 10, 2012
Rocco & nino and family
So sorry for the loss of your mother,your in our thought and prayers
Denny & Sandy Hoffner
December 9, 2012
Rocco & family,
We are sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
December 8, 2012
Rocco & Debbie, Diane LeeAnn and I are very sorry to read of your loss. Your friends at Avenue Antiques.
Tim James
December 8, 2012
Rocco & Nino, My brother Mel and I would like to offer our heartfelt sympathies with the loss of your Mom.
December 8, 2012
Rocco and Deb, we are sad to hear of your loss. We will sure miss her on your visits to the antique mall. She was so much fun to chat with while you shopped. You will both be in our thoughts and prayers. Marc and Jane Kneuss
Stacy Kandel
December 8, 2012
Deb and Rocco, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers...
Michele Rose (Sedlock)
December 8, 2012
Rocco and family,
You have my deepest sympathy. Your mom is a wonderful lady whom I'm glad to have known. She always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. God be with all of you at this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results
Make a Donation
in Jo Gemma's name
Memorial Events
for Jo Gemma
How to support Jo's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Jo Gemma's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
