On Aug. 12,1942 Jo Anna’s journey began in Springfield, Ohio. She had many enjoyable memories of her childhood growing up and playing near the family quarry. Through high school she began her lifelong creative pursuits. She achieved many accolades for her numerous projects in fashion design and fashion shows throughout Ohio. Her love of music and a beautiful voice impelled her to audition for a part with a local music singing group, of which she earned her place with the group.

Later in life she found herself in Lebanon, Ind., where she began to draw close to God through her close examination of the Bible. As a result, on July 30, 1960, she dedicated her life to serve Jehovah, the God she had come to know and love. From that moment on she devoted her entire life to doing Gods will. She served as a full-time evangelist and volunteered many hours to the construction of Kingdom Halls and Assembly Halls throughout Indiana, Texas, California, Mexico, and Colorado.

Another life defining event came on March 2, 1962, when she wed Howard L Swift. They shared a family and spiritual life together of 62 years, raising daughter, Christian Michaels, and son Eric Swift.

Jo Anna had the ability to make people feel at ease under any circumstances and enjoyed helping people. She was a talented painter, seamstress, and really a jack of all trades. She could fix anything, and loved being creative. She just really enjoyed working with her hands. Music also became a lifelong pursuit, with many hours either playing the piano or quite often practicing her singing. Her personal talents ran very deep.

She was such a sharp dressed lady, who loved to coordinate her entire outfit into a classy ensemble of matching hats, shoes, purse and jewelry. She really did know how to dress the part and strut her stuff.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Howard, and her daughter Christian Michaels and many beloved and dear friends she considered her extended family.

Cremation was selected and a discussion will be held to explain her bible-based hope on Saturday, April 13, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 28 Trosper Drive in Monte Vista starting at 1 p.m.  For those not able to attend the discussion will be available via Zoom: Meeting code: 872 2602 6433 Passcode: Ps8410.

Joanna will forever be remembered for the example she set for others and the joy she brought to their lives. She will be missed.

To express condolences to the family, please visit www.mvmortuary.com. Mountain Valley Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.