Jo Ellen is survived by her sister Maria van der Meij, nephew Ruben van der Meij of Lancaster, an Uncle-- Col. (Ret.) George Jatras of Camp Hill-- and numerous cousins.
She is preceded in death by her parents Besse L. & Donald E. Grimes, and husband, Gary Hoffman.
Jo Ellen was born in Harrisburg, PA. She graduated from Central Dauphin High School, and continued her education at HACC majoring in Photography. Jo Ellen owned and taught dance at her award winning studio for over 35-years. In 2008, Jo Ellen completed a short film The Shoes while attending the Miami Film School.
Jo Ellen provided all ages a chance to dance, and created a family like community at the Studio. She believed in her students and staff, inspiring them to reach beyond their own expectations…some advancing to professional careers.
In addition to deeply loving the people in her life, Jo Ellen cared about the welfare of all animals; but especially her beloved dog Diggy and cat Sydney.
A funeral is scheduled for Thursday, April 5 at 11 am at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral (1000 Yverdon Drive, Camp Hill, PA), officiated by Fr. Michael Varvarelis. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jo Ellen's life. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to animal welfare organizations, such as the Pet Pantry of Lancaster.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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