Jo Ann Morrison

Jo Ann Morrison passed on October 3, 2026; with her husband, son and wonderful caregiver by her side. She was nearly 84 years of age; having been born on November 28, 1942, in Queens, New York. Jo Ann was preceded in death by her father, Domenick; her mother, Alda; and her sister, Patty.

For nearly 55 years, Jo Ann shared a loving marriage with her husband, Willford Morrison. While on vacation with Jo Ann’s lifelong best friend, Mari Ellen; they met in Miami, Florida in 1968 and got married 3 years later. Looking to share their love and build a family, they travelled to Colombia, South America in the winter of 1980 and adopted their son Evan. Jo Ann and Will built a beautiful home for their new family in Woodcliff Lake where the Morrison family remains. Jo Ann will always be the foundation of the Morrison home; her care and hospitality for everyone who came into the residence was from a place of unconditional love and care for family, friends and various guests. Jo Ann’s warmth, attention to detail and unmatched homemaking and culinary skills were marveled and will never be forgotten.

Jo Ann attended FIT in Manhattan where she displayed remarkable skills in the field of fashion and merchandising. She worked at Gimbels’ and later as a buyer at Cato Stores where she enjoyed a fruitful career. She left the workplace for Will and Jo Ann’s chosen baby, Evan, who is eternally grateful for wonderful / loving parents.

Jo Ann had such a welcoming spirit that captivated everyone she met. Jo Ann loved spending time with various social groups such as the Ridgewood Women’s Guild, church groups from the United Methodist Church in Hillsdale, as well as friends from her exercise class who she loved going out to dine with. Very special to Jo Ann is her close friend Doris who was near and dear to heart.

Very special to the Morrison family is Jo Ann’s niece Dawn, her husband Tommy and their amazing sons; Matthew, Justin and Ryan. Jo Ann’s love for Dawn and Tommy’s sons was a special kind of grandma love; the Morrison family will never forget the wonderful Christmas times we shared year after year.

Very special to the Morrisons are Will’s side of the family, many of whom reside in Florida. Jo Ann’s last flight / trip away from New Jersey was visiting Tampa this past spring. This was a very memorable trip for her, Will and Evan. Jo Ann called upon every bit of strength she had amidst her long battle with cancer to enjoy this vacation week.

Jo Ann “Mom” Morrison will be in family and friends’ thoughts and prayers forever. She will be in our hearts and minds forever. May Jo Ann rest in peace with the everlasting love from family and friends comforting her.

Services were private.