Jo Vinyard

The Vinyard family is rejoicing to announce the promotion of Jo Vinyard to her heavenly home.

Jo died peacefully in Carrollton,Texas on November 21, 2016 at the age written in the Lamb's Book of Life of 92.

Her five children, 11 grandchildren, and 26 great grandchildren survive Mrs. Vinyard.

Jo Fort Vinyard was born in Silverton, Texas, on January 1, 1924 in to a home of two sisters and loving parents. Raised during hard economic times in the Texas Panhandle, Jo developed a fierce independence, which she displayed in perseverance to work through problems, and a deep love for most humans, all family, and all small animals.

Jo Jean Fort graduated from Turkey High School at the age of 15 and lived with her older sister in Lubbock while attending Texas Tech College. She completed three years of her university degree in Home Economics before she left to marry a Quitaque, Texas boy with blond hair, cornflower blue eyes, and a wide grin.

Wren Vinyard went away to World War II and came back to fill 52 years of Jo's life. While making and managing a home for the youngest 3 children and her husband, Jo pursued her life's dream of becoming a nurse. She graduated in 1966 as Valedictorian of her LVN class.

Before Wren's death in 1994, Jo and Wren enjoyed travel adventures together for several years. After her husband's death, Jo resided in Kerrville. She was a frequent host at her son Joe's restaurant, CW Steaks, greeting guests and occasionally recording his radio commercials as "Mama Jo." She had been a member of Kerrville Bible Church and Western Hills Baptist Church.

A celebration of Jo Vinyard's life is planned for 2:00 PM Monday, November 28, 2016, at Kerrville Bible Church, 898 Harper Road in Kerrville. Pastor Chris McKnight will officiate the ceremony.

James 1:17 tells us that every good thing we possess has come special delivery from God. In Matthew 10, Jesus sent His disciples to preach the gospel. He said, "As you go, preach this message: The kingdom of heaven is nearFreely you have received, freely give."

The family encourages any memorial in Jo Jean's name to be directed to the Gospel ministry of your choice.

Thanking God for the influence of Jo Vinyard on their lives, her children see the reflection of the Proverbs 31 Woman in her life.

Although her family and friends are happy for Jo's promotion, they will miss her sweet smile, words of encouragement, and animal shaped pancakes.