Jo Ann Hilliard, passed away on August 20th, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on January 30th, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas to John Richmond and Jo Holley Massey Sims. 

She graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in San Antonio, Texas in 1969. Jo Ann devoted her life to her family and her faith, raising her two children with good godly principles. She was an active member of her church and had a love for gospel music, which included singing in the choir. One of her most significant career choices was being the amazing “Doodles” the Clown and “JoJo” the Mime. Jo Ann also went to college as an adult to become a medical assistant at a pediatric clinic, which she enjoyed until she started driving 18-Wheelers. One of Jo Ann’s most special achievements was receiving an award for 3 Million Safe Miles during her many years with CFI. Her last job before she retired was a receptionist for a local restaurant supply company. During her lifetime, Jo Ann enjoyed many hobbies, watching westerns and was passionate about horses.

Jo Ann is preceded in death by her father, John; her mother, Jo; and her brother, Richard “Rick” Massey. She is survived by her brothers, Arthur “Art” Massey; James and wife Kelley Sims; her sisters, Susan “Sue” and husband Bruce Cato; Kris “Holly” and husband Robert “Bob” Gravett; her daughter, Amy Jo and husband John Medaris; her son, Don and Melinda “Mindy” Hilliard; granddaughters, Emilee and husband Dalton Sauce; Caitlin McMichael and Fiancé Adrian McNemar; and Dani “DeeDee” McMichael; grandsons, Kenny Taylor and Bear DuBose; and great-grandson, Alexander “Alex” McMichael; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; she is also survived by her close friend, Suzanne Glasper.

A celebration of Jo Ann’s life will be held at East Mountain Baptist Church on August 24th, 2026, starting at 10 am. The family invites friends to share memories and celebrate a life well-lived. The family requests any donations in memory of Jo Ann to be made to Focus on the Family Ministries or East Mountain Baptist Church Ministries.