Joella E Ford's Obituary
Joella Elizabeth Ford, lovingly known as "Jo" and "JoJo," passed away peacefully on July 4, 2026, at the age of 68 in McAlester, Oklahoma.
Born on May 21, 1958, to Tony and Dorothy Basolo, Joella spent all her life in Oklahoma. She lived for many years in Verdigris, OK, where she created a home with her husband Jim Ford, filled with love, laughter, beautiful gardens, and cherished memories with family and friends.
Joella dedicated many years of service to Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), where she was known for her hard work, commitment, and the lasting friendships she formed throughout her career.
Outside of work, Joella found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved tending to her garden and flowerbeds, preserving precious family memories through scrapbooking and photography, and spending time swimming. Above all, she treasured her family. Her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother.
Joella will be remembered for her generous heart, adventurous spirit, and uncanny ability to turn ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. She believed life was meant to be lived fully, wasn't afraid to get a little rowdy, and had a talent for finding herself in the best kind of trouble. If you ever heard the story that she once had a pet monkey, it wasn't an exaggeration or a family tall-tale—it was absolutely truth.
Her generosity touched everyone around her. Whether she was serving as a PTO volunteer, a homeroom mom, cheering from the dugout as the softball team mom, or simply showing up whenever someone needed a helping hand, Jo gave her time and love freely. She made people feel welcome, made friends easily, and left those around her with stories they'll be telling for years to come.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim Ford; her parents, Tony and Dorothy Basolo; her brother, Tony Basolo; and her sister, Loyce Cody.
She is survived by her daughters, Jane Greene of Denver, Colorado, and Emily Camp of McAlester, Oklahoma; her beloved granddaughter, Harper, and grandson, Sawyer; her sister, Nancy Scherman; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, who will forever cherish her memory.
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