Josephine Ann Stephens

It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of Mrs. Josephine Ann Stephens. She departed us peacefully in her sleep at home on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents Federico and Mamie Riso, and youngest sister Mary Ann Meeks. She is survived by her loving husband of 78 years, Donald Stephens, daughters Gail Nelson (Rodney), Peggy Christy (Stephen) and Jeanne Brant (Ken) granddaughters Darcy (Josh) and Leslie (Greg) Nelson, and great grandson Ian Banks.

Jo Ann was a porcelain artist and teacher for more than forty years.

She was a World Organization of China Painters (W.O.C.P) certified teacher for over twenty years, served as President of The Academy of Modern Porcelain Artists, and was an active member of the Tampa Woman's Club. Her art won numerous awards and has been displayed at the W.O.C.P. Porcelain Art Museum in Oklahoma City. She donated her time, skills, and porcelain art freely to multiple charities.

Jo Ann and Don enjoyed happy memories with their young daughters riding horses and participating in the Gasparilla parades with the Tampa Comancheros. In retirement, Jo Ann and Don enjoyed traveling the world together, including trips to South America, Southeast Asia, Japan, Europe, and many fun family cruises to the Bahamas. Later in life, Jo Ann spent many years china painting in Ybor City and later teaching classes abroad and in her own home. Her custom painted tile and murals graced the walls of the Columbia Restaurants, Disney Celebration, as well as private homes. Her last years were spent surrounded by her family and enjoying time with her great grandson. She will be remembered for her dignity and humor, compassion and wit, and always an invitation for a good laugh and a glass of vino.

We will honor her life at Blount and Curry Funeral Home,

605 S. MacDill Ave. with an 11 am visitation followed by a service at 12 noon on Thursday, July 9th.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity closest to your heart.