Feb 15, 2013

Joan “Jo Ann” Bongiovanni, 81, of Washington, succumbed peacefully to illness Friday, February 15, 2013, with family by her side.

She was born August 16, 1931, in Mansfield, Ohio, a daughter of Thomas Morris and Mary Randolph Morris.

Mrs. Bongiovanni attended Trinity schools and worked at G.C. Murphy Co. at the candy counter, and at Hazel Atlas 2 as a packer.

She was a member of St. Hilary Church and its Christian Mothers group.

Mrs. Bongiovanni enjoyed being with her grandchildren, playing bingo, and music, singing and dancing.

Shortly after high school, she met Anthony Bongiovanni, her soul mate. They were married June 2, 1951, and for 61 years, shared a bond that transcended marriage.

Surviving are her husband, Anthony Bongiovanni Sr.; a son, Anthony Bongiovanni Jr. (Theresa) of Follansbee, W.Va.; a daughter, Mary Jo Bongiovanni of Washington; a brother, George “Buddy” Morris of Washington; a sister, Janet Eisert of Washington; two grandchildren, Brianne Sweetland (Matt) and Elisabeth DiSalvio; a stepgrandchild, Michael Kachur; and two great-grandsons.

Deceased are a brother, William Morris, and a sister, Ruth George.

The pain of loss reaches many cousins, nieces and nephews as well as dear friends. Throughout her life, she was loved and admired by family and friends alike for her faith, loyalty and compassion.

Friends will be received from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, February 18, in St. Hilary Church, Washington, with Father Thomas O’Neil as celebrant. Entombment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Additional information and guest book are available at www.NealFuneralHome.com.