I'm so sorry to read of Jody's passing but I am so grateful for having known her. She assisted me with counseling, and saw my daughter briefly when she a teenager too.

 Being a fellow social worker, we discussed work, volunteerism, the joy of parenting an only child, our daughters (we both enjoyed some mother-daughter vacations, for example), her beloved grandsons, the occasional stresses of a long marriage, and she was always a kind, insightful ear when I was stressed out. One memory was of her asking if I had seen the then brand new comedy It's Complicated and she was excited that I had because she was hoping I'd seen it so we could analyze the characters together during my session; the kind of fun I had back in college with late night dormitory movie discussions!

I am married 36 years now and my child grew up to be an LCSW as well and Jody was helpful talking to her about that career path when she was deciding what to study and where. Jody helped so many people with her skill/gift as a therapist. Think about how many individuals, couples, and families were positively affected because Jody was born! That is a life well-lived. 

Because of Jody's counseling, my marriage was extended over 40 more years.

Jody and I were able to work closely together and place so many children in loving homes. I would love our talks about the children and the families. She was always so happy and would always put a smile on my face. I have to find some of our photos together at the office to share. She will be missed by all!

Jody and Eden joined us for brunch in Houston in the late 80’s when I was just a teenager. I’ll never forget how they both won me over that day! Jody with her motherly wisdom asked all the right questions and helped me arrive at the decision to move to Houston for my senior year. Jody smiled and laughed and told me all the things I needed to hear about what a wonderful road to travel this would be! 

She was right, and boy did we have an adventure in store. Many weekends I was at their house, and we would discuss everything from life’s big choices to relationships, careers, and school. We both worked at LaurelWood Hospital and grew closer through the years. Jody poured out love and compassion for so many people. She helped many navigate this journey of life, and touched every heart like a ray of sunshine.  Her life is a testimony of what it looks like to truly serve others as Jesus demonstrated. 

Eden and I became best friends as teens, and remain close to this day! I love you Jody! I know that you are in Glory, wearing a heavenly crown full of many jewels! 

Jody told me a story, over a glass of wine.  She was driving her little car in New York city, back when she was attending Columbia University. She was stopped at a red light and the engine quit, she tried to restart the engine while the taxi behind her started honking the horn. After a few more attempts to start the engine she got out of her car and walked back to the cab. She asked if he would help her get it started and he agreed to try. When he went to go try it, she got in the cab and Started Honking the Horn. She said the customers in the cab could not stop laughing. She felt it was her duty !!!

I will never forget laughing hard with Jody  when she told me that one.  Then right back to drinking the wine !!!

My favorite memories of Jody are a mix of the laughter she shared with her sister, Dot. When I think of Dot, I think of Jody, sitting on the back porch, drinking a good glass of wine. I know they're doing just that now. Jody loved to laugh. She was featured on the front of a magazine and told me it was "for people to find their long lost twins" and she "needed to go find who that beautiful woman was!" Being young, I believed her full heartedly, promising I would help her find this other woman, she need only ask. I love you, aunt Jody - hug Dot and Pa for me.

I knew her through Houston Group and appreciated how she enriched us there.  I hope in her crossing the river was kind.

My condolences to Joann (Jody)'s family. I first met Joann (Jody) when [ describe how you know each other ] and we would often [ include common activities together ].

In February, 1966 my husband and I nervously climbed the stairs of the large old house in Dallas that was the home of Hope Cottage.  We were young and scared, with no idea what to expect in the adoption process.  Your precious mother, young and beautiful (and not much older than I) stood on the landing at the top of the stairs, smiling broadly..  I relaxed, sensing we were in  good hands, and we were.  Your mother was a wonderful guide and friend, turning the process into an adventure in self-discovery and joy. We touched base through the years, and I was thrilled to share stories of the family she and Betty Steele were so instrumental in putting together.  God bless her soul.  I loved Jody.