CURRENT CELEBRATIONS

Jo Ann Budden

Everyone knew her family was her world. Jo Ann may have been a strict mom, but it was only because she wanted quality children. But no matter how strict, her love always shined through. She found her calling late in life: she was a grandmother for the ages. Spoiler in chief to her grandson who was her pride and joy. If her T.V. was on, she’d most likely be cheering for her beloved Steelers (definitely don’t call when they’re playing and kindly make sure you don’t go into labor during the Superbowl). Or watching a little HGTV, making her world Shabby Chic. Her listening tastes were eclectic featuring everything imaginable: country, pop, rap and Christian music. She was always in the mood to sing some Jason Derulo. She crafted with the best of them, either filling her home with wreaths or making grave blankets for her family’s final resting places. Her recent years have been brightened by her best friend, Pepper the African Grey Parrot. They had many a conversation; he called her mom. It made her happy to make all of her family’s favorite meals. She made the best baked macaroni and cheese and meatloaf with spagetti Os, was always up for a few yard sales and loved daisies.
Through family she’d wind up on a blind date with a handsome guy named Joe. After the 2nd date they were seldom apart. They’d share a 25-year marriage. She is survived by her daughter, Colleen Turner, grandson James Ball Jr., her son, Christopher Turner; son in law Schwartzee (aka Scooby-doo) her siblings, Linda Gauntt (the late Mark “Rick” Gauntt Jr.), Joseph Turner Jr. (Brenda), and John Turner (Anna); and many nieces and nephews.
Come celebrate 63 great years Sunday 4-6 p.m. at Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside where there will be a 6 p.m. service.