Barbara "Jo Ann" Hart, age 90, of Beech Grove, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Barbara was born October 27, 1934 to the late Lester McQueen and Elvira Thomas. She was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband of 65 years, Nelson Hart, mother Elvira Thomas, and grandmother, Mary Ensley.
Jo Ann and Nelson shared a passion for the National Parks and traveled throughout the United States. She had the privilege of sailing the Queen Mary 2 with Nelson, and hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon with her son, Tom. An avid cyclist, Jo Ann accomplished the "millennium goal" of riding 1000 miles a year and proudly rode "every hill" of the Hilly Hundred in Bloomington.
Known for her caring heart and generous hospitality, Jo Ann touched countless lives in Beech Grove where she served as South Grove PTA President, a Beech Grove Library board member, a Meals on Wheels volunteer and a member of Beech Grove First Christian Church. A 30-year staff member of Beech Grove Middle School, many fondly remember the all-beef "Hart dogs" she served at event concessions while Nelson popped corn alongside.
Of her accomplishments, Jo Ann was most proud of being a wife and mother. Nothing brought her more joy than sharing good memories and laughter around the kitchen table with family and friends.
Jo Ann is survived by her sons: Michael (Marsha) Hart; Russell (Diana) Hart; Mark (Susanne) Hart; and Tom (Trina) Hart; her grandchildren: Michael (Kristin) Hart, Emily Hart, Brian Hart, Brett (Kaeli) Hart, Patrick (Anne) Hart, Nathan (Leanne) Hart, Joel (Orlena) Hart, Joshua Hart, Luke (Julie) Hart, Roy Hart, Jeffrey Hart; great-grandchildren: Elliot, Rylie, Addison, Vivian, Levi, Ailie, Mabel, Owen, Micah, William, David, Jenny, Elisha, Esther, Seth, and Amy.
A public visitation for will be held Monday, May 5, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Little & Sons Funeral Home, 1301 Main St, Beech Grove, Indiana 46107. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Little & Sons Funeral Home with an additional hour to visit beginning at 10:00 AM.
