Obituary of Jo Ann Ellsworth

On Friday morning, February 8, 2019, Jo Ann Ellsworth, loving wife, mother of three children and grandmother of five, peacefully passed away at the age of 80 at her home in Factoryville surrounded by family. She is survived by her husband Clyde Ellsworth.

Jo Ann was born on September 2, 1938, on Pine Street in Tunkhannock, PA. She was the daughter of the late Francis and Rose Strumski of Tunkhannock.

Jo Ann worked as a manager for the Clarion State College branch of the Melon Bank, later she managed Rothrock’s Silver and Pewter Smiths in Dalton PA.  She served as a student mentor for a local educational consortium. She also served as a Eucharistic minister for her church and nearby hospitals. 

From the day she could walk, Jo Ann loved lively music and dancing. She always strived to make life cheerful for those around her. She loved her family, gardening, and loved preparing wonderful meals for gatherings of family and friends.  Jo Ann’s smile was infectious and her faith in God eternal.   She married Clyde Ellsworth of South Montrose, PA during 100-degree weather, on June 27^, 1959.  While Clyde was home from Penn State, searching for a beautiful young lady, he spotted Jo Ann on her way to the Tunkhannock Roller Rink. Clyde held the door open for Jo Ann and later asked her to skate.  This was a beginning of a loving relationship of more than 60 years. 

In addition to her husband she is survived by three children, Greg Ellsworth and his wife Cheryl, Jeff Ellsworth, and Marie Pernot; five grandchildren, Gregory Ellsworth, Victoria and Vanessa Ellsworth, Mark and Jeffery Pernot; younger sister Mary Ellen Carpenetti; older brother, Francis Strumski, Jr.

In addition to her parents Jo Ann was preceded in death by her brother David Strumski. 

“When one finds a worthy wife, her value is far beyond pearls.  Her husband, entrusting his heart to her, has an unfailing prize.  She brings him good, and not evil, all the days of her life”. [Proverbs 31:10-12]. During the 12 years that she fought her disease, she never complained or said, “Why is God doing this to me” Her faith and trust in the Lord was steadfast.  She is clothed in strength and dignity and she laughs at the days to come.”  [Proverbs 31:25]

Family and friends are invited to attend Jo Ann’s Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday February 12, 2019 which will begin at 11:00 a.m. from Our Lady of the Abingtons Church 207 Seminary Road off of 700 West Main St. Dalton, PA 18414, to be celebrated by Rev. Arbogaste Satoun, Monsignor John Esseff, and Father Jack Kilpatrick. The family request that those attending go directly to the church on Tuesday morning. A viewing for family and friends will be held on Monday February 11, 2019 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home, Inc. 73 W. Tioga St. Tunkhannock, PA 18657

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Abingtons Church 700 West Main St. Dalton, PA 18414, Hospice of the Sacred Heart 100 Williams St. Dunmore, PA 18512, or of the donor’s choice.