Memorial Services for Ms. Jo Margaret Terry Smith, age 69 of Choudrant, LA, are scheduled for 3:00 PM, Monday, April 28, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel, 2300 West California Ave. Ruston, LA with Brother Lamar Hancock officiating. Visitation will be from 1:30-2:00 PM for the family and public visitation from 2:00 PM until the time of service. There will be no graveside services as Jo wished to be cremated.
Jo Margaret Terry Smith passed away surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 in Ruston, La. Jo Margaret was a retired Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), former multiple business owner, a former police officer with the Ruston Police Department (RPD), and former dedicated reserve officer with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Jo Margaret was known for her unwavering commitment to public service and her compassionate heart. As an LPN, she provided exceptional care to countless patients, earning their respect and gratitude. Her tenure at the Ruston Police Department was marked by her steadfast dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. Her role as a reserve officer at the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office further exemplified her dedication to serving and protecting others.
Throughout her life, Jo Margaret displayed remarkable strength, resilience, and kindness. She was a loving family member and friend as well as an endeared ‘second Momma’ to more than a few people. She always offered a listening ear and a comforting presence as well as some lively banter if the situation called for it.
Jo Margaret also was an avid reader, enjoying novels daily. She was also an animal lover, having trained and ridden many horses in her younger years.
Jo is survived by her daughters, Leah Lord and husband Troy, Cori Pesnell and husband Thomas; grandchildren, Logan Lord, Lucas Lord, Chasidy Pesnell, Brittany Norred and husband Phillip; great grandchild, Elizabeth Norred; sister, Jane Keener and husband Bill; nieces, Laura Kent and Teresa Jones; and numerous other family members and friends. She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Lilly Bell, her constant companion.
Jo is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence James Terry; mother, Rieta Inez Hogan Terry; and grandchild, Catherine Pesnell.
Jo Margaret Terry Smith’s passing is a great loss to all who knew her. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, and she will forever remain in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Jo Margaret’s honor. To leave an online memorial message for the family, please visit: http://www.owensmemorialfuneralhome.com
