Jo Blair

Jo Darby Blair, age 78, passed away Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020 at her home in Batesville after an 8-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Just as she lived her life, she faced this difficult disease process prayerfully, courageously, and graciously. Because of her personal relationship with Christ, her deep faith and trust in her Heavenly Father endured to her last breath in her earthly body. Jo entrusted her heart and life to Christ many years ago and shared her testimony and faith joyously and freely in her daily life and through numerous mission trips to Romania, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Her servant’s heart and joyful sweet spirit touched lives too numerous to count. She not only shared her love of the Lord, but also her resources; her home to those in need, food for any that were hungry, and unconditional love and understanding for all. She used her gift as a talented cook and baker to minister for many years. She felt her home was a gift from God and dedicated it to Him for His Glory. Whether the need be for a single night or an extended stay, you were always welcomed, loved, encouraged, and cared for as only Jo could so graciously and tirelessly do. In addition to her mission work, Jo was a faithful and devoted fan of the South Panola Tigers, Miss State Bulldogs, and Northwest Rangers.

Jo was born July 29, 1941 to the late George Darby and Lillie Mae Tomlin Darby in Panola County. Jo was a retired sales clerk with Dunlap and Kyle. She was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church. She and her fellow church members had a lifelong bond that surpasses time and understanding. Jo had a deep love, admiration, and appreciation for her precious church family.

The loving family she leaves behind and will treasure every moment they had with her include her 2 daughters, Vicki Blair (Steve Calvert), and Stacy Cheek (Ben) both of Batesville; 1 son, Randy Blair (Denita) of Batesville; her beloved grandchildren, Meri Douglas Blair, Joseph Blair (Bryanna), Preston Blair (Kyra), and Kaylyn Cheek; and great grandchildren, Braiden, Jordan, Tucker, Dakota, and Travis Blair. Also grieving her loss are a host of nieces and nephews she treasured.

The family will hold a private graveside service for Jo at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at Shiloh Cemetery in Courtland. Wells Funeral Home has charge.

In lieu of flowers the family request a memorial be made to either; Mark and Martita Wanker Missions to Spain, c/o Cornerstone Baptist Church, 427 Hwy 6 East, PMB 222, Batesville MS 38606 or The Cross Ministry, 107 Quail Run Rd. Batesville MS 38606, or the charity of donor’s choosing.