Jo Ann Burkett

Jo Ann Burkett, age 73, of Billings, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2014. She was born July 4, 1941 in St. Louis, to Raymond and Earline (Barrett) Sparks. She met her husband, Arthur F. Burkett, in fifth grade and dated off and on until they married April 29, 1963, in East St. Louis. Jo Ann worked in a cafeteria in a public school while her children were growing up. Her family describes her as an independent woman, fun loving, and very unselfish. She and Art moved many different places with his job, and she never complained. She always made her home a loving place. Art says Jo Ann never had a bad day in her life. After their children were grown, while living in Colorado, she and Art liked to take adventures. They liked to go white water rafting, and camping. Jo Ann loved her family and she will be greatly missed. Survivors include: Her husband, her two sons Brett, of Billings, Art Junior and his wife Susanne, of Nixa; grandsons Stephen McAnally and his wife Kelley, of Strafford, and Justin Burkett, and his fianc� Casey, of Ozark; and four great grandchildren. Jo Ann is also survived by her brother Raymond; a nephew Buck; and a niece Casey. Jo Ann is preceded in death by her parents. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa