Jo Ann Escritt, 92, formerly of Gifford, died at 6:55 a.m. Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, April 17, 2023, at Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E. Pells Street, Paxton, with Rev. Pat Allin officiating.  Burial will follow in Glen Cemetery, Paxton.

Visitation will be one hour before the funeral service from 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Jo Ann was born March 15, 1931, in Champaign the daughter of Frank Luther and Evelena Harriet Spangler Hunter.  She married James Allen Martin on November 4, 1949. He passed away on October 20, 2007. She married William Escritt, Jr. in 1985.  He preceded her in death January 15, 2010.

She is survived by two daughters, Jill Ann Russell of Fairbury, Paula Jean Denning of Rantoul; one son, James Kevin (Diana) Martin of Clinton, Indiana; 9 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren and 2 sisters, Judie Ricketts of Rantoul and Geneva Marshall.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and 11 brothers and sisters.

Jo Ann worked as a seamstress at Chanute Air Force Base, Rantoul, Combe Laboratories, Rantoul and Bell Helmets, Rantoul.

She enjoyed reading, sewing, cooking, gardening and canning.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor's choice.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.