Joanne McMurray
Alton |
Joanne “Willis” McMurray was born to the union of Mr. Clarence E. Willis Sr. and Mrs. Mary L. (Green) Willis on December 11, 1943 in Gary, Indiana and later relocating to Alton, Illinois.
“Mama Jo” was educated in the Alton school system, graduating in 1963. She attended Lewis and Clark Community College earning an associate degree in human services, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville earning another degree in human relations. She owned Mama Joe’s Simple Snacks located on Central Ave in Alton. She loved to write poetry, cook, dance, and talk her stuff.
“Mama Jo” gave her life to Christ at a young age at Rocky Fork AME Church. She rededicated her life at the True Church House and Prayer to all Nations, and then moved to Victory Baptist Church serving as the Mother and Announcement Clerk as well as many other positions for 24 years. She later joined Deliverance Temple COGIC in June 2023
“Mama Jo” served as a caregiver for many years, and worked with the 700 club, Operation Blessings, Salvation Army, and several years with Catholic charities. “Mama Jo” cared deeply for her community, neighborhood, and children. She legally adopted Jason Taylor and Jacquiline Williams Ballinger.
The former Joanne Willis united in holy matrimony on August 18, 1973 to Sanford McMurray Sr. Together they raised six children: Terri, Shelly, Sanford, Stacy, Andre (Brigetta “BJ”) and Marcus (Dennisha) and many neighborhood children.
Joanne departed this life on April 29, 2024 with family by her side. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband Sanford McMurray Sr, and their six children, seven grandchildren, and three great grandchildren, and God children, siblings, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins. Aunts Carol Lee, and Wanda Randle. Several special friends: Rikki Johndalyn, Lavern Sue Steptoe, Jane Pitts Greer, Vivian Allen, Karen Epps, Garret Parker-Bey, Sharon and Ronald Cannon.
Visitation is from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Deliverance Temple Complex Church of God in Christ at 1125 E. Sixth Street, Alton. Funeral service is at 11 a.m. at the church.
Harrison Funeral Chapel
