Dates
Jo Chriesman, 83, of San Angelo passed away Thursday, Jan. 28 at her home. Graveside dedication is at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 1 in Fairmount Cemetery. Bishop Frank Drake will officiate. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Johnson's Funeral Home.
She was preceded in death by her mother Mary Frances "Fran" Perdue and her father Robert Chriesman. She was loved and will be missed by her brother Robert Perdue and wife Chi; sister Julie Newman and partner Sally Tallmon; nephew Brian Newman and niece Liza Perdue; great-nephews Kyle and Zak Newman; great-niece Samanta Perdue; lifelong best friend Peggy Morrison and her son Scott; and kitty cat Blossom.
Throughout her life Jo experienced success in her work life. She was employed by GTE for over 40 years. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she excelled at teaching Primary children.
To say Jo was selfless would be an understatement. Instead of continuing her education after graduating from San Angelo College she went to work to support her mother and siblings. Cultured and extremely intelligent, she infused us with her love for opera, classical and international music. She gave generously, had a passion for animal and environmental causes, and the Metropolitan Opera. Jo had a steel trap memory of the finest details such that every encounter she ever had with those in her life were significant and important. Socially at ease and adept at conversation one could always find a feisty and amiable encounter with her.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Ty Hughston and Dr. Vayden Stanley; Shannon Home Health, especially Deanna and Donna; Gentiva Hospice; her steadfast sister and brother in the church, Trish and Herb, and caregiver Angie. Sally Tallmon's devotion and loving care in Jo's latter days gave her reason to look forward to waking up every morning.
In lieu of flowers, Jo would request memorials be made to Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue of San Angelo, or the Metropolitan Opera.