Jo Ann Johnson, age 64, of Woodridge, IL, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2024.  She was born on November 25, 1959 in Geneva, IL, and was the fifth of six children of Ralph and Wilma (née Eberhardt) Johnson.

Jo Ann was a very active child with several learning differences. In kindergarten, she was referred for special testing.  The tests revealed a rare genetic disorder, Cornelia de Lange Syndrome.  Jo Ann received special education services throughout her school career.  After finishing school, she was able to enter the Ray Graham Association Residential Program.

Through the years, Jo Ann enjoyed living with her peers in community living facilities and group homes.  She especially enjoyed bowling and going to workshop.  She also loved family time, dining out, jigsaw puzzles, drawing, and coloring.

In 2008, Jo Ann's artwork was picked to decorate an ornament for one of the White House Christmas trees.   She and her sisters traveled to Washington, D.C. for sightseeing and a reception with Laura Bush.

For several years, Jo Ann attended 3-day conferences at the Speak Up and Speak Out Summits in Springfield, Illinois. These summits advocate for people with disabilities to have a voice in making choices to become the best person they can be.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bruce Johnson; cousin, Deborah Szabo; and nephew, John Bruce.  She is survived by her siblings, Laura (Robert) Bruce, Richard Johnson, Barbara (Edmund) Frank, and Bryan (Mary)Johnson; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the Ray Graham Association, and especially Jo Ann’s social workers and the staff at Kincaid House.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jo Ann's name to Ray Graham Association would be greatly appreciated.