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Jo Ann Catron, age 96, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2021 at the home of her granddaughter (DeeDee) in Savannah, TX. She was born in Chapmanville, WV on December 29, 1924 to her parents, Lonnie Edward, and Ida Alice Smith, but spent the better part of her life living in Welch, WV. She attended Welch High School before marrying James K. Catron in 1941. During their 58 years together, prior to his death in December 1998, they were co- owners of Catron’s Inc and “The Gift Chest” in Welch. Jo Ann was also active in their church (First Presbyterian Church), serving as President of “Women of the Church” and as a Women’s Circle leader. Over the years, she was also active in WHS Band Boosters, PTA, and a Brownie Scout leader. Survivors include their three children, Peggy Smith Bowles of Knoxville, TN, Jamie Catron of King George, VA, and Russ (Lisa) Catron of Louisville, KY. Jo Ann’s grandchildren include DeeDee (Bobby) Lewis of Savannah, TX, Sandy (Vince) Kowaleski of Frisco, TX, Brad Smith of Fredericksburg, VA, Tracie (Jerry) Wray of King George, VA, Kelley (Chris) Cox of King George, VA, and Jay (Heather) Goodman of Lake Elsinore, CA. Great grandchildren are Will (Sarah) Turner, Ashleigh (KD) Burdette, Lyndsey Turner, Kayleigh Kowaleski, Brady Kowaleski, Stephanie Johnson, Meredith Goodman, Eric Shade, Justin Shade, Christopher Cox, Jude Goodman, Tyler Beltran, Isabelle Beltran, and Savannah Wray. Jo Ann was also blessed with 15 great-great grandchildren. She also had two special neighbors (McKinsie (Evans) Hale and Brandon Evans) whom she babysat from birth and who grew up treating “Nanny” like their own grandmother. Jo Ann was a beautiful lady who was deeply loved by her family and friends, and she demonstrated her love for them through her many selfless acts. She was an impeccable dresser who always took pride in her appearance. She loved reading, jewelry, antiques, fine china, and anything crystal. But more than that, she had an amazing gift of hospitality who made everyone she met feel special and welcome. Whether she was hosting family gatherings, holiday parties, or just sitting on the patio sipping wine with friends, she was a great listener and always made herself available to everyone she knew for a nice chat and an often-needed chuckle. Due to Covid-19, there will be no funeral service. At her request, Jo Ann’s remains are being cremated and a small family celebration of her life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to McDowell Public Library, 90 Howard St., Welch, WV 24801 or to the McDowell County Humane Society, 109 Dogbone Dr., Superior, WV 24801.

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Jo Ann Catron

December 29, 1924 - February 3, 2021