Jo Ann Brooker

Jo Ann Brooker, 71, of Green Cove Springs, FL died on June 30, 2019. She was born in Palatka, FL to Annie Daniels and James Alton Brooker and grew up on Green Cove Springs. She is survived by her brother Al Brooker, her daughter Tara Beth Brooker, many nieces and nephews, and a large number of stray cats.

As the first in her family to attend college, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English. And just to piss off all the Gator Fans in the family, she earned that degree from Florida State University. Though she was a devoted Seminole fan, she did eventually support the Gators and even wore a Gator t-shirt. For many years, she worked in Green Cove Springs for Jacksonville Area Legal Aide. She found fulfillment by connecting the people of Clay County with the services they needed.

Jo Ann enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her late sisters Bette and Dottie. She also enjoyed quilting and crafting while her eyesight was good enough. Anyone who knew her would tell you that she loved her cats, trips to Wal-Mart, and her daughter Tara Beth. She would tell you her greatest joy in life came from being a mother.

She was kind, stubborn and funny as hell, traits that all run in the Brooker family. She loved her family dearly and showed it by giving gifts whether you them or not. The family is certain that she is sitting up in heaven with her sisters drinking coffee, laughing and probably watching Gunsmoke.

In lieu of flowers or fried chicken, the family asks that you make donations to the Clay County Humane Society. www.clayhumane.org/donate.php

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, July 13, 2019 in the Broadus-Raines Chapel with Reverend Joe Barrie officiating.