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Mary Jo (Hartmann) Stewart, 72, long-time resident of Mendenhall, MS, passed away on October 7, 2020, at St. Dominic’s Memorial Hospital in Jackson, MS.
Mary Jo was born on April 1, 1948 in Passaic, NJ. Beloved mother of Rebecca Stewart formally of Mendenhall, MS and David Stewart of Ogden, Utah. Adored grandmother of Evin Smith, Carey-Anne Smith, and Lilly-Beth Smith. Cherished sister of Robert Hartmann and a loving Aunt to many. Mary Jo was the daughter of the late Edythe Buswell and Joseph Hartmann and preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Martin Stewart (2003).
Mary Jo grew up in Ridgewood, NJ and graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1966. As a student, she was very interested in history. For a few years she attended Transylvania University in Lexington, KY. Her husband’s naval career and periodic service abroad required that she draw on her courage and flexibility while raising her children. The young family moved around the country – living in Virginia Beach, Maine, and Illinois – before finally settling in Mendenhall to be near Martin’s family.
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In 2009, Mary Jo graduated from Hinds Community College with a certificate in medical billing. Curious about the world around her, spirited, and full of fun, Mary Jo loved to sing in the choir and was devoted to a community of many friends at St Stephens Catholic Church in Magee, MS. Serving as one of the original members of the Parish Health Ministry and an active member of the Alter Rosary Society. She loved to travel, and she pushed her children to explore the world. She empowered her children to carry on through the worst life offers and understand that it too is just a phase and if you look hard enough there is joy in everything.
Mary Jo’s joyful spirit will be missed by many.
Funeral Mass will be held at St. Stephens Catholic Church, Magee, MS on 10/14/20 at 10 a.m. The family politely asks for you to bring a mask and practice social distancing. Although Mary Jo took great joy in her extended family members and friends, due to COVID-19, the service to celebrate her life will be limited to those in the immediate area.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to St. Stephen Parish Health Ministry P.O. Box 427 Magee, MS 39111 or PayPal rstewart02@icloud.com. Mary Jo volunteered with the Health Ministry and was devoted to their cause serving the local community. The parish health ministry serves the sick and shut-ins within the community. They offer a food pantry for anyone in need regardless of church affiliation.
