JoAnn Allen 1934-2025

JoAnn, more often hearing her called “Grammy” or “Jo,” or the last 10 years, “Jo Jo,” was born June 13, 1934, in Youngstown.

Grammy lived with gentleness, kindness, compassion and grace. Her laugh was infectious and her smile could light up a room. She was looked up to by many.

Grammy was a consummate host, an excellent card player, lover of old movies and board games, a loyal friend, a loving soul and a woman of faith. She loved to remind us that “God doesn’t make any junk!” when we were being unfair or unkind to others. She would sometimes be the “Old Maid” in favor of her grandchildren when the opportunity would arise and refuse to let on she let them win to help build their esteem and confidence.

Grammy loved cooking, baking, and teaching Sunday school and Bible study, but most of all loved serving her family, friends and whoever God put in her path. She saw loveliness in many who are seen as unlovely. She was not perfect, but she was perfectly loved! Her faith was her foundation and it was beautifully evident as she lived each day, right until the end. Her prayer book and Bible were her two favorite books and her passion for life.

She adored her husband, Walter “Wally.” As he grabbed her hand in Heaven, he looked at her and said, “you’re gonna love it here!”

She will always be remembered lovingly by three children, Tracey (Victor) Lossev, Kurt (Susan) Allen and Beth (Eric) Murray; and six grandchildren, Zachary Darnell, Hilary (Zach Heming), Haley, Mallory and Lindsey Allen, and Madie Murray.

She was preceded in death by her husband; and mother, Ann Bucsa Davis.

There will be a celebration of life service 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, at Believers Church, 1322 W. Western Reserve Road in Boardman, with a meal to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to St. Mary’s Alzheimer’s Center, where JoAnn received excellent care, or Project MKC, that helps care for kids in need.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave. in Boardman. Family and friends may visit the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com to view this tribute and send condolences.

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