Joanna Sue Williams O Dell of Republic, MO, died on May 15, 2015 after a graceful and courageous battle with cancer. Known to her friends as Jo and to her family as Grandma Jo , she was a fun personality full of life and a big heart for both her family and her friends. Jo was born on May 24, 1934, in Springfield, MO, to Calvin and Ollie Belle Williams and lived in the area most of her life. Jo professed her faith in Christ at an early age while attending High Street Baptist Church. In her later years, Jo enjoyed services at Ridgecrest Baptist Church until attending service became too difficult. Joanna was preceded in death by her parents, Calvin and Ollie Belle; and brother, Wayne Williams of Kansas City. She is survived by her sister, Mary Tiller of Springfield; daughter, Debbie Bowler and her husband Terry of Republic, son, Alan Carter of Springfield, son, Darrell O Dell of Springfield, son, Bill O Dell and his wife Lisa of Springfield, and daughter, Deverly Tootie Rouse and her husband Joe of Republic. In addition to these, Jo is survived by 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Even though she was a fan of everything her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were involved in, Jo was a baseball fan and her love of the game served as a connection to her sons and grandsons who grew up playing the game from little league and through high school and college. In addition to that, she loved reading, constructing puzzles and bragging on her grandchildren. Jo will be laid to rest alongside other family members in a private service at Shiloh Cemetery just north of the Buena Vista Ranch in Strafford, MO. In honor of her 81st birthday, an open memorial reception for all friends and family will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2015, from 2-4 PM at Bear Chapel, 678 S. National Ave on the campus of Missouri State University.