JoAnn “Jo” Johnson, 85, of Independence, Missouri passed away Friday, December 22^, 2023. Memorial service is pending.

Jo was born on August 18, 1938 in Birmingham, Missouri, daughter of William and Opal (Goodwin) Gover.  She married the love of her life, Glenn E. Johnson, on January 18,1958 and began their family with the birth of their first son, John in 1959.  Jo always had a soft heart for children.  Her love of children extended well past her dedicated involvement in the PTA; she fully enjoyed running her own in-home day care for over two decades. Jo cherished her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Spending holidays together, visiting, and enjoying wonderful holiday suppers is what brought her the most joy in life. Jo was a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Joy Michelle Lane.

Jo is survived by her husband of 65 years, Glenn Johnson; sons: John (Janet) Johnson of Independence, MO, and Jim Johnson of Independence, MO; daughter, Jaci (Mike) Amberson of Blue Springs, MO, grandchildren: Zack Lane, Secilie Johnson, Cody Lane, Meredith Johnson, Kate Amberson, Eathen Lane and Aly Johnson, 8 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude-today.html.  

Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, MO 816-796-8600