Betty Joan Allen “Jo Ann”, also known as Jo Ann Elizabeth McBride and Jo Ann Elizabeth Reyes, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on January 24, 1946, in Denver, Colorado, she was raised in Columbus, Georgia, where she spent most of her life surrounded by the family and friends she cherished.
Jo Ann was a devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, daughter, and friend whose warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith touched countless lives. Known for her beautiful smile, infectious laughter, and sweet yet spirited sense of humor, she had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel loved and welcomed. Her hugs brought comfort, her words offered encouragement, and her presence brightened every room she entered.
Family was the center of Jo Ann’s life. She lovingly cared for generations of relatives and friends, giving generously of her time, energy, and heart. Whether family by blood or by choice, those fortunate enough to know her understood the depth of her unconditional love.
Jo Ann’s greatest legacy was her faith in God and her love for Jesus Christ. She taught her family the importance of kindness, compassion, forgiveness, patience, and living with integrity. Even during life’s most difficult challenges, she remained steadfast in her faith and continued to put others before herself. Her strength, resilience, and grace were an inspiration to all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her father, Alfred A. Daniels, CSM, US Army; her mother, Betty Josephine Daniels; her sisters, Roxann Boggs and Diane Hill; her brother, Danny Daniels; and her beloved dog, Chewy.
She is survived by her loving son, Scott Reyes and wife Susan Reyes; her daughter, Wana Reyes and beloved partner Bill Quick; her grandson, Daniel Reyes; her granddaughter, Gracen Reyes; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, including Ricky Daniels, Michael Daniels, Robbyn Sanders, Brittany Hankamer, and Anita Latelle.
While her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in the assurance of her eternal home with Jesus Christ. Jo Ann will be remembered for her unwavering love, her faithful spirit, her generous heart, and the countless lives she blessed. Her memory will forever remain a source of comfort, strength, and inspiration to all who knew and loved her.
“Mom, we love you so very much. We will miss you every day, but we rejoice knowing that you are home with Jesus. Until we meet again.”
A Rosary/Prayer Vigil will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Fisher Chapel, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia, on October 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM, followed by Visitation from 6:00 PM until 7:30 PM.
A Funeral Service outside of Mass will be held at St Anne Catholic Church, 2000 Kay Cir, Columbus, Georgia, on October 29, 2026, at 11:30 am. The Committal Service will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park, 4500 St Marys Rd, Columbus, GA 31907 .
