Ms. Willa “Jo” Briscoe, age 85, passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Diversicare of Arab. Jo was born in Marshall County, Alabama and currently a resident of the Ruth Community. She was born February 6, 1939 the daughter of Elvin Lewis Hallmark and Pearl Odell Peterson. She was married to Travis Windell “Sonny” Briscoe who passed away in 2019. Jo worked providing childcare in local daycare establishments. She was a member of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church.
In Jo’s younger years she enjoyed traveling and especially enjoyed visiting the Grand Canyon and the Smokey Mountains. She spent her leisure time gardening and watching soap operas. Jo also found time to read, usually books from her favorite author, Danielle Steel.
Jo is preceded in death by her husband, Sonny Briscoe; her parents, Elvin Hallmark and Pearl Moon; and son, Ricky Dickson.
Family members left behind to cherish their memories of Jo include her son and daughter in law, Travis and Nada Briscoe; her daughter and son in law, Saundra and Randy Handley. Survivors also include her grandchildren, Myles Bateman (Jessica Harris), Blake Hogan and Sharanna Bridges; great grandchild, Hayden Bridges; sister, Brenda Ledbetter.
Family, friends and others whose lives were touched by Jo are invited to Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 to reminisce, grieve, support each other and, of course, just chat. Jo’s funeral service, under the direction of Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel, will follow beginning at 2:00 p.m. Brother Clint Maze, pastor of Pleasant Valley Church, will officiate. Pallbearers will be Myles Bateman, Blake Hogan, Lafero Ralph, Tony Ralph, James Willis, and John Speck. Burial will be in Mount Oak/Ruth Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family encourages donations to Caring Heart Outreach in Arab, Alabama.
