Jo Ann Scott was a radiant soul whose warmth, wisdom, and compassion left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born in Los Angeles, CA to John P. Scott and Jacqueline C. Johnson. Jo Ann’s life was a testament to service, resilience, and love.
From an early age, Jo Ann was drawn to helping others.
Jo Ann’s diverse professional journey includes work at GTE General Telephone, Honey Bear’s Liquor Store, Fort Ord / U.S. Army Garrison, Office of Emergency Services Presidio of Monterrey Police Department.
Jo Ann then continued as a civil servant in both the U.S. Navy, having worked at the Navel Shipping Yard. And the U.S. Army, working on Special Operational projects.
Jo Ann continued her civil service career with roles in federal agencies such as the Department of Justice, Department of Defense, Immigration and Naturalization Service, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, where she retired after 19 years of service.
Jo Ann also held an instrumental role on the team that founded the Department of Homeland Security.
Jo Ann’s influence extends far beyond her professional achievements.
Jo Ann was a bridge builder who showed an extreme dedication and kindness to everyone around her—friends, coworkers, and family alike.
A gifted poet and historian, Jo Ann’s advocacy for her family’s history earned her recognition from Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, but her greatest reward was the joy of making others feel seen, heard, and valued.
A gifted poet and historian, Jo Ann was deeply committed to genealogically documenting her family’s legacy.
From the musical gifts of her grandfather in Holland to the profound ties to the Holocaust in Germany, Jo Ann deeply researched and documented her family’s history.
Jo Ann’s smile could light up a room, and her grace was a comfort to many. Her unwavering love and spirit of service will forever live on in the hearts of all those she touched.
Memorial Video
Family and Friends
“Lover’s Lullaby.”
Close your eyes and slumber deep Please dream of me as you sleep The stars glisten in the midnight sky This is a lover’s lullaby My passion flows deep like red Visions of you dancing in my head The price of love can be so high This is a lover’s lullaby Wounded hearts filled with pain Weary and doubtful if they will love again The thought of your love makes me sigh These words I write, a lover’s lullaby Sleep deeply my love until you see That all you want is here in me For all these years I’ve kept inside This heartfelt lovers lullaby So now I recite these words to you And hope that you will know the truth That sometimes we must endure some tears And leave behind yesteryear But know that when you see my eyes You are my lover’s lullaby
