Born September 14, 1938, in Vandalia to Edward and Edna (Kinney) Gerkin, she married William L. Brown on June 3, 1955, in Vandalia. He passed away on June 17, 2023. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one son-in-law, David E. Sorenson.
Surviving are two daughters, Penny Sorenson and Mary (Jon E.) Owens: four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Jo Ann was a branch manager for 30 years at First Federal Savings & Loan in Bartonville.
She was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Pekin. She loved being involved, helping with the Clothing Closet and food pantry for more than 10 years.
Jo Ann’s family always came first to her. She was a very loving mother, always active in children’s lives helping however she could.
She thoroughly enjoyed her time singing with the Sweet Adelines Chorus.
Her memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, January 23, 2026, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. There will be no services.Cremation has been accorded.
To express condolences online visit www.preston-hanley.com
