Jo Ann Boyd, 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at John Knox Village in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Jo Ann was born on December 12, 1937, in Topeka, Kansas, to Marvin and Ruth Phillips. The oldest of four children, she grew up in Topeka and graduated from Topeka High School.
Jo Ann was the proud mother of five children. In 1977, she began a new chapter in her life and later went to work at Kansas State University, where she met Robert Boyd. The two married in 1988 and shared 38 wonderful years together. In 2000, Jo Ann and Robert retired to John Knox Village, a community that became an important part of her life. She dedicated many years to volunteering throughout the Village and enjoyed the friendships and connections she made there.
Jo Ann had a love for travel and was fortunate to see many beautiful places throughout her life, including several trips to Europe. Among her favorite destinations were Ireland and Switzerland, as well as river cruises along the Rhine and Danube. She was also an avid golfer and was recognized by John Knox Village as the longest-tenured member of the women’s golf league, playing for more than 25 years.
Above all, Jo Ann treasured her family. Having her loved ones nearby brought her joy, and some of her happiest moments were those spent with her children, grandchildren, and the generations of family that followed.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Ruth Phillips; her beloved husband, Robert Boyd; and her three siblings, Velma, Rose, and Marvin Jr. She is survived by her children, Allen Messick, Mark Messick, Mike Messick (Kathy), Kathy Newman, and Bryan Messick; her stepchildren, Anne Boyd, Ron Boyd, and Christina Boyd; as well as 15 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.
Jo Ann leaves behind a beautiful legacy of family, friendship, service, and a life well lived. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the John Knox Village Foundation in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
