Jody Volk

Jody was born on 7/8/1944 in Cincinnati, Ohio where she lived for 22 years. She attended Saint Ursula Academy from Kindergarten through High School graduation before training at cosmetology school to become a hairdresser. She later became a stay-at-home mom and raised her family in Somerset, KY. When the children were older, the family moved to Sarasota, FL where Jody went back to school to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. She cared for people in their time of need for over twenty years.

Upon retirement as a CNA, Jody donated most of her possessions and headed west. Her love of nature and a desire to travel led her to work seasonally in several National Parks, including Yellowstone, Glacier, Zion and Grand Canyon. She visited many others and would often tell people, “Travel while you can”, and “Why bother travelling internationally when there are so many places to see right here in the USA?!”. When not working in the parks, Jody volunteered in local animal shelters and enjoyed frequent visits to the southern Oregon coast. Jody’s love for the outdoors was passed down from her late father, Frank, who she and her brother would regularly fish with on vacations in Michigan or from Frank’s dock on Lake Cumberland, KY. She could later be found fishing off the piers in Sarasota or at Ken Thompson Park with her own children and grandchildren.

There is an old nursery rhyme, “Sugar and Spice and everything nice, that’s what little girls are made of.” Jody may have received an extra dose of spice, but that and her quick wit are part of what made her so lovable and memorable. She enjoyed making people laugh. The legacy Jody leaves is one of a love for family, friends, nature and animals; an adventurous spirit; a humorous and clever personality; and a selfless dedication to caring for others. Jody will be remembered as a strong, resilient, fiercely independent woman, and she will be greatly missed.

Jody was preceded in death by her mother and father, Caroline and Frank Volk, grandparents, aunts and uncles, including her favorite aunt, Mary Volk. She is survived by her children; April Jordan (Chris) of Dunedin, FL, Kevin Slater (Sirimada) of Peachtree City, GA, Bryan Slater of Sarasota, FL and Marcia Pappas (Damen) of Sarasota, FL. Jody was the proud Meemo of twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her brother, Michael “Pete” Volk of Golden Valley, AZ, cousins Karen Volk and Kenny Volk (Joann)of Cincinnati, OH, and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home. The immediate family will hold a private celebration of Jody’s life. Condolences may be offered at www.sylvanabbey.com or privately to the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to please consider donating to your local animal shelter or Suncoast Hospice Care Center in Palm Harbor, FL.

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