Essie Jo Gilchrist

Essie Jo Gilchrist was born in Gunnison, Mississippi. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and faithful servant of God whose life was filled with love, laughter, family, faith, and an appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Jo leaves behind her four children: Billy Gilchrist (Becky), Leigh Ann Hazelgrove (John), Denise Smith (Marvin), and Kim Gilchrist (Lee). She was a devoted and loving grandmother to Will Gilchrist (Faith), Caleb Gilchrist, Grey Smith, and Elizabeth Smith. Jo cherished every moment with her grandchildren and took great pride in watching them grow into wonderful adults.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Gilchrist, and her daughter, Twila Gilchrist.

Jo is survived by her sister, Audrey Allen, and a special sister-in-law, Polly Williams, along with many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Jo was a member of Covenant Baptist Church in Collierville, Tennessee. She devoted 31 years of her life to the United States Postal Service, retiring as Postmaster in Stanton, Tennessee. Her dedication to her work and the people she served was a meaningful part of her life.

Jo had a zest for life that was unmistakable. She was an avid reader, a lover of good food, and a true restaurant connoisseur. She was famously willing to travel for a great meal and believed that good food was even better when shared with people she loved.

She also loved to travel and was an enthusiastic sports fan. Some of her happiest memories were made watching Kim play basketball for the Ole Miss Rebels, cheering for her grandsons as they played baseball, reading with Elizabeth, and simply enjoying time with her grandchildren as they grew. Her favorite teams were the Memphis Tigers and the Ole Miss Rebels.

Jo never wanted to miss a moment. She embraced life with passion, humor, curiosity, and an unwavering love for God and her family. She had a way of making life more joyful simply by being present, and her laughter, stories, faith, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Though she is no longer with us, the life she lived and the love she gave will continue through her children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, in Jo's memory.

Forever Loved. Forever Remembered.