Jo Anne Strauch (Osborne)

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jo Anne Strauch (Osborne), who peacefully left us on January 16, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the age of 78. Jo was born on September 22, 1946, in Orange, California, to her loving parents, Jack and Betty Carrell.

Jo grew up in Grass Valley, California, where she attended Nevada Union High School. In February 1966, she married Charles Osborne (Chuck) in Rough and Ready, California. Together, they raised four children: Cayte, Tom, Sarah, and Jennifer.

Her love for history led her to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She went on to teach US History at the high school level for many years.

In 1996 Jo found love again and married Douglas Strauch in Murphys, California. Jo is now reunited with her parents, her beloved grandmother Agnes Cruzen, and her husband Douglas in Heaven.

Jo is survived by her children, Cayte Osborne, Tom Osborne (Nancy), Sarah Masters (Mike), and Jennifer Osborne. She leaves behind her cherished 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Jo also opened her heart to her foster daughter, Arlene Vargas-Pike, her stepdaughter Kimberly Moncur, and her 3 step-grandchildren.

Jo's passion for music was evident in her life. In the late 70s and early 80s, she brought her guitar to her children's elementary school, teaching them beloved songs like "Country Roads," "Puff the Magic Dragon," and "The Yellow Submarine." Her love for music continued in her high school teaching, where she brought her guitar to lessons about the 60s and Woodstock, connecting deeply with her students through the power of song.

Jo’s passion for history and teaching shaped many lives. She valued education and encouraged her students to learn from the past to build a better future. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom as she taught night school for adults earning their high school diplomas.

In addition to her love for teaching, Jo was an incredible seamstress and quilter. Her handmade outfits and quilts, crafted with love and an eye for color and design, became treasured gifts for many.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jo’s faith guided her life. She had a close relationship with her Heavenly Father and was always ready to serve others.

A celebration of Jo's life will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the LDS Chapel, 951 E 100 S, Salt Lake City, Utah. A luncheon will follow at noon. Please RSVP for the luncheon at [email protected]. Jo loved bright colors, so we ask attendees to wear vibrant clothing in her honor.

Jo’s warmth, kindness, and love will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.