Jo Ann Wortham, beloved wife, mother, and cherished friend, passed away on September 8, 2024, in Coleman, Texas, at the age of 92. Born on August 23, 1932, in Houston, Texas, she lived a life marked by love, devotion, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Growing up in Houston, Jo Ann attended school and carried with her the values instilled by her parents, Harry Lee Gardner and Ida Bell Poskey Gardner. These values would become the foundation of her life as she built a warm and welcoming home for her family.
Jo Ann married her loving husband, Gerald Ray Wortham, on June 5, 1948, in Houston. Their union was a testament to a deeply nurturing partnership, and together they raised their two children, Pam and Jerry. As a mother, Jo Ann took immense pride in her family, finding joy in every moment spent with them, shaping their lives with her unconditional love and wisdom.
A woman of many talents, Jo Ann had a green thumb, reveling in the beauty of her garden and the vibrant flowers she nurtured. Her passion for cooking was well-known; she delighted in preparing meals and gathering family and friends around her table, always eager to provide comfort and nourishment. In addition to her love for gardening and cooking, Jo Ann held a special bond with animals. She adored riding horses and caring for her beloved dogs, showing her compassionate spirit in every aspect of her life.
Jo Ann is survived by her children, Pam Gregory and husband Roger of Coleman, and Gerald Ray “Jerry” Wortham, Jr. and wife Elizabeth of Kyle. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her five grandchildren: Tracie Gregory, Eric Gregory and wife Cassie, Jessica Lewis and husband Ben, Rachel Santos and husband Nic, and Renee Breazzel; along with ten great-grandchildren: Maddie, Dakota, Davin, Payton, Joey, Daigen, June, Sada, Tinsley, and Reece, each of whom she cherished deeply.
Preceding Jo Ann in death were her beloved husband Gerald, her brothers Howard Gardner and Harry Lee Gardner, as well as her parents.
Jo Ann Wortham will be remembered not only for her role as a devoted wife and mother but also as a kind and generous spirit who brought joy and love to everyone she encountered. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of her family and friends, forever reminding them of the remarkable life she led.
A memorial service will be announced upon completion. Arrangements are entrusted to Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan Street, in Coleman.
The family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be made in memory of Jo Ann to The Austin Humane Society at www.austinhumanesociety.org.
We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Wortham family by signing the guestbook on Jo Ann’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Wortham family.