Jo Anne (Rose) Reida, 87, formerly of Ft. Madison, IA, passed away on March 28, 2023.
Jo Anne was born to Sanford Stanley and Ada Marie (Rebman) Rose on January 9, 1936, in Peoria, Illinois. Jo Anne was a true railroad child, and lived in Chillicothe, IL, Marceline, MO and Topeka KS. Jo Anne attended Topeka High School and Washburn University in Topeka. There she received a degree in education and taught at Lundgren Elementary School. Jo Anne met the love of her life, George Reida, through a church youth group in Topeka. From the moment she heard him play the piano she was smitten. They were married on November 1, 1957, in Topeka. Jo Anne continued to be part of a railroad family and lived in Chicago and Topeka before settling for many years and raising her family in Ft. Madison. She worked for the Cattermole Memorial Library from 1974 till her retirement in 2003. Her love of books never wavered. Nor did her love for all types of music. She was a fine and experimental cook, providing multicultural meals for her family long before that was in vogue. She was an avid gardener and could make anything grow. She appreciated history, mystery, and a good glass of sherry. She had a strong connection to the Mississippi River and was able to carry it with her in her heart and mind when she no longer lived close to it. A special thanks goes to Bickford of Urbandale for their fierce love and care of Jo Anne.
Jo Anne is survived by her four children, George (Melynda) of Cedar Rapids, IA, Sallie (Rob Hedgepeth) of Johnston, IA, Jon (Stephanie) of Augusta, IA, and Russell; four grandchildren, Tristan, Sydney, Heather and Carl (deceased); and two great grandchildren, Carmella and Spencer.
Jo Anne is additionally preceded in death by her parents, her husband George, and her brother Richard. Per her request the body has been cremated and private family services will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions for Jo Anne Reida can be addressed to Bickford of Urbandale, 5915 Sutton Place, Urbandale, IA 50322 or to your local library.