Jo Ann Lacey

Jo Ann was born on February 3, 1945, in Fort Scott, to Helen Marie Johnston Lawry and Richard E. Lawry. During her elementary school years, her family moved to Vicksburg, where she was raised. She graduated from H.V. Cooper High School in 1963 and went on to attend Hinds Community College in Raymond, Mississippi. While there, she was a proud member of the Hi-Steppers dance team. She earned her Associate’s Degree in 1965 and began a long career as a secretary. In her final position before retirement, she served as Executive Secretary to the Director of Wildlife for the State of Mississippi.

Jo Ann had many creative talents and joyful pursuits. She loved playing the piano, painting ceramics, decorating cakes, and dancing. She especially enjoyed traveling, with cruises ranking among her favorite adventures. A gracious and welcoming hostess, she delighted in opening her home to family and friends. She was a wonderful cook who effortlessly prepared large meals to bring people together. Even the birds and squirrels were recipients of her hospitality, as she took special pleasure in watching them gather at her feeders. Jo Ann simply wanted everyone—family, friends, and even wildlife—to feel comfortable and well fed.

After retiring, she moved to Harvest, Alabama, to be closer to her grandchildren. There, she became an active member of the local chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, often sharing her musical talents by playing the piano at meetings and special events.

Jo Ann is survived by her loving husband, Gary Lacey of Harvest, Alabama; her brother, Doug Lawry (Sandy) of Cedar Falls, Iowa; her daughter, Stephanie Skinner (Jeff) of Huntsville, Alabama; her grandchildren, Nate Skinner (Robyn) of Huntsville, Becky Roberts (Cody) of Folsom, Louisiana, and Johnny Skinner of Huntsville; and her great-grandchildren, Thea Skinner and Lily Roberts.

She was preceded in death by her parents; the father of her daughter, Danny Howington; and her second husband, Charles Clevenger.

A visitation will be held on February 27, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Valhalla Funeral Home, located at 698 Winchester Rd NE, Huntsville, Alabama, 35811.

The funeral service will follow on the same day, February 27, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Valhalla Funeral Home.

A committal service will take place on February 27, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm at Valhalla Memory Gardens & Funeral, also located at 698 Winchester Rd NE, Huntsville, Alabama, 35811.