Mary JoAnn Beckham, known to friends as "Jo" passed away on April 1, 2018, at the age of 85 years. Born in Winfield, Kansas on May 9, 1932, Jo lived in Springfield for over 50 years with her husband of 49 years, Rex L. Beckham, who preceded her in death.

Jo was active in her daughters' school activities including band and girl scouts. Jo loved a good card game and may have been known for stretching the rules a bit. Known as one of the luckiest people around, Jo enjoyed a good lottery scratch-off ticket and never passed up a trip to go gambling.

She will always be remembered for her funny and slightly ornery commentaries that brightened the day of all those around her. The fact that she passed on April Fool's Day is a testament to a life lived on her terms.

She worked at United States Fidelity and Guaranty Company before retiring. Jo continued to work after retirement at Harter House where Jo always had a smile for the customers and loved to interact with her fellow associates.

Jo will be missed by her three daughters, Sue Beckham, Sandy Andrus and husband Howard Andrus, and Sharon Beckham, along with three grandchildren, Weston McConnell, Madison Andrus, Mason Andrus and wife Shelby Andrus, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Raymond and Billy Maddox.

Jo will be buried next to her husband at White Chapel. Those who desire may make donations to the Alzheimer's Association, a cause near and dear to her heart.