Jo-Ann D. Holly's Obituary
Jo-Ann Doris Burke Holly, age 76, passed away on September 5, 2022 at 5:45 PM in Annapolis, MD surrounded by her three, loving children.
Jo-Ann is survived by her husband Clifford J. Holly Jr. her children Clifford J. Holly III, Julie S. Holly and Mitchell B. Holly, grandson Tre Holly, her sister Marilyn Queen and a host of nieces and nephews.
She was born on March 14, 1946 in Plainfield, NJ to Dr. James S. Burke Sr. and Grace Lina (Hammond) Burke. Jo-Ann was the youngest of the Burke’s six children. She came of age in Baltimore, MD and graduated from Forest Park High School before attending Morgan State University where she studied visual art. Upon leaving Morgan State University, she joined the Social Security Administration.
In 1977 she, her husband and the oldest two of their three children moved to Prince George’s County, MD where she began her career as a full-time mother and homemaker. Jo-Ann introduced her children to art, baking and cooking and tutored them with their studies. In 1985, the family was blessed with their third child.
In 1993 she began working for Prince George’s County Public Schools first as a substitute teacher then as a Paraprofessional with Headstart and Pre-K. Jo-Ann was a passionate educator and loved watching children blossom both socially and academically under her watch. Many of her students would come back and visit her to thank her for helping them follow their dreams and become good citizens.
She will be remembered by her loved ones for her artistry. Whether it was painting, drawing or sculpture, Jo-Ann had both a unique eye and point of view. Her artistry also leapt off of the page and onto the plate. She was especially known for her desserts such as homemade cakes and Christmas cookies that she would lovingly make for family and close friends.
She was a wordsmith that enjoyed crossword puzzles and other word games. Additionally, Jo- Ann was passionate about current affairs and making the world a much better place now and for future generations. In her leisure time she enjoyed watching sports, especially women’s tennis and figure skating, Judge Judy and movies.
Jo-Ann was one of a kind and this world is left better from her being in it. Her legacy of Love, Laughter and Loyalty will be carried on by her children and grandson.
There will be a private burial on Thursday, September 15, 2022. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you send a donation to the Capital Area Food Bank.
What’s your fondest memory of Jo-Ann?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jo-Ann?
Share a story where Jo-Ann's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jo-Ann you’ll never forget.
How did Jo-Ann make you smile?