Jo-Ann Bonnell HAywArd wHiteHeAd

1925-2015

Jo-Ann Bonnell Hayward Whitehead, devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister died peacefully while surrounded by her family on the 15th of November 2015.

She was born August 31, 1925 to William Gardner Hayward and Caroline Bonnell Hayward. Her family was among the original founders of Youngstown, Ohio where they had interests in iron, coal, steel and banking. The family also established The First Presbyterian Church of Youngstown in 1799.

Jo-Ann graduated from the National Cathedral School in Washington, D.C. in 1943 and Miami of Ohio University four years later. After college she moved to New York City to pursue a career in broadcasting working for CBS radio and became Program Coordinator for the network. While visiting family in Houston, Jo-Ann met her future husband, Tom, who was the love of her life. They were married December 13, 1961 at her family church in Youngstown where she later brought her children, Toby and Caroline, to be baptized.

Jo-Ann was active in the Junior League of Youngstown, New York City, and Houston; past President and board member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Alexander Love Chapter; member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants; the National Society of New England Women; Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America; and a founding member of the Houston Racquet Club.

Jo-Ann centered her life around her family and was an active participant in her children’s activities, teaching Sunday School at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and volunteering for Post Oak Little League, The Awty School and The Kinkaid School.

Jo-Ann is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Hugh Bonnell Hayward. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Phillip Whitehead; son, Thomas Hayward Whitehead and wife Katherine; daughter, Caroline Bonnell Whitehead Hildreth and husband Jeffrey; grandchildren William, Suzannah, Thomas, and James Whitehead; Hayward, John and Alexandra Hildreth. She is also survived by her sister, Elizabeth Hayward Marshall; stepson Bruce Willson Whitehead and wife Chisa; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jo-Ann traveled the world, loved politics and was an avid sports fan. She leaves behind a legacy of love and generosity and her celebrated pound cake. She will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 20, 2015 at one o’clock in the afternoon at Christ the King Presbyterian Church, 1201 Silber Road, Houston, Texas 77055.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.