Jo Ann Shrader

Jo Ann Shrader (née Jensen, formerly Roth) of Crown Point, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 10, 2025, after courageously fighting a long battle with cancer. She faced her illness with unwavering strength and determination.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James “Ray” Shrader; and by her parents, the late Kenneth and Eunice Jensen. She is survived by her loving brother, Gary (Pat) Jensen; her cherished nieces and nephews, Trent (Carey) Jensen, Shawn Killeen, and Nick (Stephanie) Jensen; her adored great-nieces and nephews, Kaiden, Gracie, Easton, Chase, Cole, Cooper, Millie, and Lucy; and her step-children, James, Michael, and Ray Shrader, and Suzanne Dille. She also leaves behind her devoted companion, Mike Southard.

Jo Ann was born and raised in Lansing, IL, where she attended high school at TF South (Class of 1970). She went on to earn her teaching degree at Eastern Illinois University and then taught physical education at Heritage Middle School in Lansing for over 20 years. Jo Ann started dating the love of her life, Ray, in 1992, and one of their first dates was at the Trail Blazers vs. Chicago Bulls NBA Finals game. She moved to Las Vegas, NV, shortly before they were married in 1998, and the two shared nearly 17 years together there. During that time, she taught at several schools, including Rogich Middle School, where she retired. She also worked at Allegiant Air. After Ray’s passing, she moved to Crown Point, IN, to be near family and, most recently, worked at State Farm Insurance.

Known to many as “Joey”, “Aunt Jo”, or “Jo,” those closest to her would describe her as a joy to be around—a fun, sweet, and wonderful person. Her family meant the world to her; she regularly attended her great-nieces’ and nephews’ games and loved showering them with gifts. She enjoyed playing video poker and having fun at the casino, and adored her basset hounds over the years. Many of her former students remember her as their favorite teacher, and her coworkers loved being in her company. She’ll be remembered for her giving spirit, joyful laugh, and warm presence.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Providence Hospice in Saint John, IN, in her memory.

A visitation for Jo Ann will be held Sunday, August 24, 2025 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307, followed by a Celebration of Life at 6:00 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Shrader family.