Josephine "Jo" Evans (Tilley)
June 21, 1928 – November 22, 2024
On November 22, 2024, Josephine "Jo" Evans passed away peacefully, relieved of all illness and pain, at the age of 96. She was a remarkable woman who devoted her life to her community, family, and faith. Jo is survived by her loving daughter Pamela and predeceased by her birth parents Joseph Murray and Maude Tilley Murray, her adoptive parents Frank and Mabel Tilley, and her sister Mae Tilley Lokar.
Jo began her career in banking in Leamington, Ontario, and spent 30 years in Detroit, Michigan, rising to Assistant Vice President. After retiring early due to illness, Jo dedicated another 30 years to volunteer service, supporting organizations like St. John’s Anglican Church, Leamington Hospital, Blood Clinics, Lions Club, and Special Olympics. Her dedication earned her numerous accolades, including Citizen of the Year (twice), Volunteer of the Year, the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award, and Honorary Membership in the Lions Club.
Despite battling cancer three times, recurring heart failure, arthritis, and dystonia affecting her eyes for over 40 years, Jo faced every challenge with strength and grace. She valued teamwork, friendships, and making a difference in her community, always ready to help someone in need.
A memorial service celebrating Josephine’s extraordinary life will be held at Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, Ontario, on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Arthritis Society or the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation of Canada are greatly appreciated. Share condolences and memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.
