Jo Gautschy

Jo (aka Jo Jo) was born in Chicago, IL on July 24th, 1936 and lived in Evanston, IL until she married Chuck. She graduated from Evanston High school and attended the University of Illinois and majored in Art. There she met Chuck who thought she was the "prettiest girl he ever met" and so, they were married and celebrated 55 years together.

Jo was a Domestic Engineer and first class Property Manager facilitating 24 moves in 7 different states over 36 of the 38 year tenure Chuck had with Amoco (BP). They lived the last 19 years in West Lake Hills. She stayed in touch through cards, visits and travel with a vast collection of friends over the years and was loved for her devotion, fierce loyalty and encouragement. Jo did not have had an unkind word to say about anyone.

Jo was an Artist of amazingly varied talents. She has a collection of pencil, collage, oil and (her favorite medium) water color pieces that are displayed in her home – and in many others'. Her observation of the 'human' experience showed amazing compassion, with many of her subjects being children and adults who were challenged by life's circumstances. However, many of us know Jo from her beautiful talent with fabrics and the many pieces sewn over the years. From the girl's Easter dresses, to ALL of the blouses she embroidered to the stoles being worn today by the ministers, her passion for art showed in the images she drew, scanned and digitized to create wearable works of art. But it is the ties she made for Chuck during his years at Amoco that landed her the most fame. Many of them were given decibel readings (for how loud they were).

Jo loved to entertain and be entertained and she created a home that was filled with family and friends every holiday it could. She loved to dance and loved to have Chuck dance with her. The saying is, "Dance like no one is watching." When Jo danced, no one could look away. She danced with the energy and joy of a 5 year old girl.

Over the years, Chuck and Jo traveled to over 54 countries to include a recent cruise on the Amazon River.

Jo is survived by husband Chuck, and children and spouses Cindy and Alan Goldsberry, Charles and Cindy Gautschy and Maria and John Hale; grandchildren TK and Alec Goldsberry, Charles and Ben Gautschy and Mary Hale; sister-in-laws Janice and Charlotte Gautschy, and nieces and nephews. Jo is preceded in death by her parents.

The family of Jo Gautschy wishes to thank the congregations of Westlake UMC and Bethany UMC for their prayers and compassion during Jo's illness as well as so many other friends who where there during this time.

Jo Jo was humble in spirit; there was no hint of pride or privilege despite her abundant talents and blessings.

Jo Jo was compassionate about the trials and suffering of others, both in their lives life and at the time of their passing.

Jo Jo showed tolerance and humility; she was easily imposed upon and quick to serve.

Jo Jo lived a virtuous and admirable life; this is evidenced by her work, her words, and her actions.

Jo Jo was quick to forgive and slow to punitive action.

Jo Jo saw only the best in people.

Jo Jo had no time for ongoing discord. She never lamented on an unsettled dispute; she didn't engage in grudges or encourage their practice.

Jo Jo had no desire to dwell-upon, or even remember hurtful words and insensitive actions.

Jo Jo honored God with and in her talents; she left a household of beautiful artwork and memorable meals as a tribute to the gifts He gave her.

Mathew 5:

13 "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

14 "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Jo loved angels. Now she is one.

Memorial donations may be made to Westlake UMC Endowment Fund, 1460 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX. 78746, or Bethany UMC Benevolence Fund, 10010 Anderson Mill Rd Austin, Texas 78750, or the American Cancer Society.