Joann Gill

Jo Ann Gill (Lathem) passed away peacefully at home on October 24, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 22, 1939 in Columbus, Ohio. Jo Ann will be remembered as a woman whose warmth devotion and unmistakable spirit left a lasting mark on those who knew and loved her. Jo Ann found happiness in everyday moments that made life rich and memorable.

Those who knew her also knew her deep love for her family. In her kitchen, she was especially in her element where she loved to cook and bake for her family, creating meals with instinct and confidence, always insisting “you’ll know” rather than needing a recipe. Her cherished kitchen was her pride and joy, and it stood as a place of welcome, care, and love for those fortunate to gather there. The holidays were especially meaningful to her bringing together the people she loved around the table and into the heart of her home. As a dog lover at heart, Jo Ann’s world was infinitely brighter because of her cherished four-legged companions, Benji, Pepper and Hogan. She loved spending time outdoors, finding peace and happiness in her yard. She was especially proud of her beautiful roses, hanging baskets, and the many flowers that flourished under her care.

For many years, Jo Ann worked as a legal secretary at Bricker & Eckler law firm where she took pride in her work and built lasting friendships. She loved playing cards and traveling across the world with her work friends, embracing both companionship and adventure with joy. She was also an avid Ohio State Buckeye football fan, and family and friends knew better than to stop by or call during the game. That spirited loyalty was just one of the many qualities that made her so memorable – full of heart, conviction, and the love for the things and people that mattered most.

Jo Ann is survived by her children, Ron (Vicky) Lathem, Donnie (Jaime) Lathem, Jason (Kimberly) Lathem, Amy (Tony) Klein, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Betty Fout, Eugene (Michele) Carr, and Randy (Valerie) Carr, as well as many nieces and nephews. Each of them carries forward treasured memories of her love, her strength, her humor, and the comfort of being welcomed into her home and her life.

She is preceded in death by her father, Joseph Carr; her mother, Blanche (Moore) Carr; and her son, Craig (Yvette) Lathem. Their memory remained a part of her life, and she now rests with those who went before her.

Visitation will be held on November 6, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio 43123 (614)-539-6166). A memorial service will immediately follow in the funeral home at 6:00 p.m.

Jo Ann will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for the life she built, the meals she shared, the traditions she cherished and the steadfast love she gave so freely. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

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