Jo Ann Kennedy

Jo was born to Charles and Frances Stevens Riley on July 20, 1934. She met the love of her life, Richard Kennedy in the 7th grade. They were married on December 21, 1952. Jo attended and graduated from Connersville High School. When Jo was younger, she was employed at a bakery, General Telephone and A&P grocery. Later, Jo and Richard opened their own business, J & D Communications in 1972. They continued to run the business until their son-in-law and daughter took over in 2000. Most recently, Jo was a Team Leader at Walmart, from which she retired after many years. She was a member of Rainbow Girls where she was Worthy Advisor and Grand Cross Color; in addition, she was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was once an avid bowler who tackled the big 4 split. Jo enjoyed traveling and camping at Redwood. In addition, she enjoyed going to the casino with her Walmart friends. Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her family; she especially loved visits from her great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband of seventy-one years: Richard, Jo is survived by her children and their spouses: Douglas Kennedy, Lu Ann Best and Ron, Laura Thompson and Dean; grandchildren: Patrick Best and Jessica, Jessica Roberts and Justin, Cory Kennedy and Nikki, Elizabeth Thompson, Ellen Thompson and Tyler; great-grandchildren: Addyson, Camilla, Sadie, Autumn, Kennedy, Owen; sister: Ruth Ellen Gaines; several special nieces and nephews: with special thanks to her niece Carolyn Judd.

In addition to her parents, Jo is preceded in death by her son: David Kennedy; siblings: Richard Riley, Sarah Riley, Patricia Lunsford.

A visitation for family and friends will be conducted from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Myers Chapel, Connersville. A graveside will immediately follow at Dale Cemetery with Pastor Rob Judd officiating.