Dec 04, 1954 - Nov 06, 2025
Jo (Jo Anne) Thomas passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, surrounded by friends and family.
Jo was predeceased by her loving parents Fran and Bob Thomas, but she leaves behind her longtime partner Gary Murphy, her sister Sandy (Angelo), her nephews John (Amanda), Sam (Michelle) and Eric (Hector), along with her two great nieces Nina and Margot and two great nephews Marco and Luca. Jo also leaves behind her network of many close friends, including her lifelong friends (The Goils) Joy, Leslie and Marian, who have been there and supported her throughout her life right up till the end. Sue, who predeceased Jo, will be waiting to share a scotch with her. She will also be missed greatly by her cat Chico.
Jo was a straight shooter and you always knew where you stood with her. She always told it like it was. But to friends who knew her, she was loyal, honest, fun, and great to be around. A lover of books, many can attest to her vast display of bookshelves throughout her home. These then provided surfaces for her many knick-knacks, all of great sentimental value to Jo. She was a 60’s and 70’s rock music guru, and probably one of the best fans the Rolling Stones ever had. Her passion for Mick Jagger is displayed throughout the house. She was also a great fan of the Montreal Canadians hockey team. (Go Habs!)
Many thanks to the teams at The Ottawa Hospital, General and Civic locations, who have taken wonderful care of Jo throughout her 16 years of various battles.
A Celebration of Life will be held at her favourite stomping ground, The Dominion Tavern located at 33 York Street, Ottawa, on November 22nd at 2 pm.
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First Memorial Funeral Services
A Division of Service Corporation
International (Canada)ULC
Funeral Establishment
Operator-Class 1, FE-335
613.860.2424
info@firstmemorialfairview.com
1411 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, ON K1V 1A6
© 2026 Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
First Memorial Funeral Services
A Division of Service Corporation
International (Canada)ULC
Funeral Establishment
Operator-Class 1, FE-335
613.860.2424
info@firstmemorialfairview.com
1411 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, ON K1V 1A6
© 2026 Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
First Memorial Funeral Services
A Division of Service Corporation
International (Canada)ULC
Funeral Establishment
Operator-Class 1, FE-335
613.860.2424
info@firstmemorialfairview.com
1411 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, ON K1V 1A6
© 2026 Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
My Auntie Jo was truly a one of a kind individual whom we will all miss dearly. Her love of 60’s and 70’s rock was a really amazing influence on me and one thing we could always chat about. She was a staple at the cottage every morning sitting in the same spot on the porch reading a book (likely a horror book) and that image is usually the first to pop in my head when I think about her. She was stubborn and always told you what was on her mind and I loved that about her. Another small thing I always appreciated and will miss is getting a Christmas card from her. Her cards were always hand-picked to match the recipient and usually very funny, but mostly her penmanship was absolutely impeccable and receiving anything handwritten by her was lovely. I will miss you Auntie Jo – we will all miss you.
Love,
Sam, Michelle, and Margot
So very sad hearing the news that JoAnn has left us. We will truly miss her presence in our group of friends. She clearly stood out as a no muss no fuss lady. A straight shooter right from the get go. A few years back when the era of “blond jokes” was around I sent her one knowing full well that I would receive a stern rebuke. We were living in Vancouver at the time. She wrote back “hey Ron, why don’t ya just take a dive into English Bay.” I loved that gal. Rest in peace sweet soul. Marian and Ron Jones.
We’re going to miss you Auntie Jo. From Christmas mornings at Grandma and Grandpa’s to nights at the cottage you were always fun to be around. You lived life the way you wanted to and were never afraid to speak your mind. I always admired that quality about you. No BS, you told it how it is. I’m glad you got to meet all 3 of my kids, your great niece and nephews. Thanks for all of the memories. Love always your nephew John, Amanda, Nina, Marco, and Luca
Rest in peace, Auntie Jo. Thank you for being such a powerful example of how to live authentically. I’ll miss our exchange of cat pictures!
Memories of a dear best friend, from a best friend. We shared many, many decades together with such positivity, laughter and treasured friendship. You are an irreplaceable part of my life, and you will be forever in my heart. Missing you so much already.
We are so very sorry to hear about your sister Jo. Please accept our sincere condolences to you, Ang & your family’s. 💖🙏💖
Rules to always follow to ensure Jo was happy!
Never touch the radio station and don’t burn all her wood!
Jo was a big sister to me. From my earliest memory, Jo was always on vacation with our parents. Quick to get annoyed with me, she was always able to forgive my youthful energy.
Will miss your hugs Jo.
My big, lil sister.
Loved her joie de vivre! Always appreciated her frankness and that she was! ❤️😘