Jo Ann Keefer Lynch, 72, of Boerne, Texas died Feb. 24, 2025, in the peace and comfort of her home, surrounded by loved ones. Jo Ann was born Dec. 30, 1952, to Marvin and Joy Keefer in Lubbock, Texas.

As a child, Jo Ann spent many contented afternoons engrossed in books of high adventure, sentimental romance or brain-teasing mystery while nestled within the steady branches of an elm tree.

On many occasions, she would find comfort and solace beneath the sheltering limbs of a graceful weeping willow. She often spoke and told stories of her times spent at her grandparents throughout her childhood.

After graduating from Levelland High School, she went on to work various jobs, putting her array of talents to use prior to continuing further education. With determination and love for education, Jo Ann received a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio in May 1999.

In 1973, she met the love of her life, Steve. Two years later, they wed on Oct. 25, 1975, at the Chapel Hill Baptist Church in Odessa, Texas. In 1980, Jo Ann and Steve would welcome to their family a son, Alex, followed by a daughter, Megan, in 1984.

In 1986, Jo Ann and family moved from Odessa to Boerne, Texas, purchasing a forever home filled with unconditional love. JoAnn was an active member in many communities. She proudly served as a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, United Daughters of the Confederacy, National Society of Colonial Dames XVII, Franklin County Historical Society, The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, The Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War and The Genealogical Society of Kendall County, to name a few.

However, her greatest role was educating third and fourth grade elementary students while teaching at Currington Elementary School from 1999-2005.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her father, Marvin Kreider Keefer Jr., in 2012. She is survived by her husband, Stephen Lynch; one son, Alex Lynch; one daughter, Megan (Luis) Lynch; her mother, Joy Lackey Keefer; one brother, Bert (Sheila) Keefer; one sister, Cletus (Curtis) Swarts; a brother-in-law, Bob (Deb) Lynch; a sister-in-law, Donna (Pat) Trout; and countless cousins, nieces, nephews and friends, as well as a heart family of daughters and grandchildren.

Jo Ann’s big personality could fill a room, making anyone feel welcomed and loved all at the same time. She loved an assortment of music; songs by the Moody Blues, the Eagles, Chris Stapleton, America and Kris Kristofferson played while she would work on her latest crafting project.

The sweet aromas of freshly baked goods often filled the house, as cake was considered a breakfast item in her household. When it came to hobbies, there was basket weaving, painting, drawing, writing, pottery making, sewing, quilting (especially baby quilts), crocheting, photography — you name it, she could do it.

Jo Ann lived life, engaged in experiences that brought joy, fulfillment and a sense of purpose. When times were tough, she embraced challenges, constantly striving to grow and learn. She was a fierce friend to many, loyal and trustworthy, never too busy to lend a helping hand, provide a shoulder to cry on, or to be a partner in crime.

She was an encouraging and supportive mother to her children, whom she cherished and loved deeply. Her greatest joy over the past 49 years was loving, living, listening and growing with her husband, Steve.

A celebration of life will be held from 2-6 p.m. March 8, 2025, at The Jones Event Center, 43360 W. I-10 Frontage Road in Boerne.