Jo Beloat

Jo Ann Beloat, 85, passed away April 7, 2012, in Kingsbrook Life Care Center.

She was born Oct. 19, 1926, to the late Orpha Kouns Beloat and George Lewis Beloat.

A life-long resident of South Ashland, she was a graduate of Ashland High School, attended Ashland Junior College and received an academic scholarship to attend Ashland Business College, graduating in 1946.

She joined Third National Bank in 1946, remaining there her entire working career, retiring with more than 50 years of service to the institution. During her tenure at the bank, she opened all new Boyd County branches, serving as manager of the Summit and South Ashland/Blackburn Avenue locations.

Jo Ann was an active member of civic and political organizations, serving as an officer and board member for Ashland Business and Professional Women and was named the BPW Woman of Achievement for 1980 - 81. She was a longtime member of the board of the King's Daughters & Sons Home, a member of the Altrusa Club and a Hospice board member. She was a Kentucky colonel.

She served as president of the Ashland Democratic Woman's Club, promoting active involvement in the democratic process. Jo Ann was proud to have voted in every election. She continued her political work well into this century. She was a fixture in local charities, serving in any capacity needed, volunteering her time, resources and energy unconditionally.

The scope and variety of Jo Ann's professional and civic achievements were rooted in her deep commitment to her faith. She was a member of South Ashland United Methodist Church her entire life and served in numerous capacities, including treasurer, building fund committee, circle member and member of the administrative board. Her unparalleled fidelity to the church was exemplified by the way she lived her life. A loyal friend, Jo Ann embodied the principles of Christianity. She gave tirelessly of her time and energies, always with the goal of service to others. Her kindness, patience and gentle soul endeared her to all she met. Her compassion was boundless, yet she was humble in her being. She will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Doris Neltner, and a brother, George A. Beloat.

Survivors include Meg Beloat, Natalie (Chris) Jones, Hollis (Buddy Johnson) Beloat, Cara Lee (David) Palmer, George (Kathy) Neltner, Irvin (Debbie) Neltner and Elizabeth (Ken) Pardy.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at Steen Funeral Home-13th Street Chapel in Ashland by the Rev. Lance Campbell. Burial will be in Rose Hill Burial Park in Ashland.

Visitation will be after noon Wednesday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, friends may make contributions to Kingsbrook Life Care Center, 2500 Ky. 5, Ashland, KY 41102; Community Hospice, 1480 Carter Ave., Ashland, KY 41101; or South Ashland United Methodist Church, 2203 S. 29th St. Ashland, KY 41101.

Condolences may be sent to steenfuneralhome.com.