Jo Beth Fann

Jo Beth Fann (née O’Neil), age 79, of West Frankfort, Illinois, went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 9, 2026. She was born on March 5, 1946, in Herrin, Illinois, the daughter of William Douglas and Lucille (Jenkins) O’Neil.

Jo Beth devoted her life to caring for others and to the gift of music. She was a licensed registered nurse, specializing as a medical-surgical RN, and served with compassion and dedication at Marion Memorial Hospital as well as at the hospital in West Frankfort, Illinois. Her calm presence, skill, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on both her patients and colleagues.

In addition to her nursing career, Jo Beth was deeply passionate about music and education. She was a band teacher with the Pleasant Hill School District, where she inspired countless students through her love of music. A talented French horn player, she was also a past member of the West Frankfort Community Band, continuing her musical involvement well beyond the classroom.

Jo Beth was an avid reader and a devoted pet lover, finding joy in quiet moments with a good book and the companionship of animals she cherished dearly. Above all else, she was a woman of faith, family, and gentle strength.

She was united in marriage to her beloved husband, William Douglas Fann, on June 24, 1967. Together they shared many years of love and joy until his passing in 2000.

Jo Beth is survived by her children, Amber Fann, Nathan (Michelle) Fann, and her special fur baby Pepper. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, WD; her two sisters; and her brother.

Jo Beth went to meet her Lord and Savior having lived a life marked by service, and love. Her legacy will continue to be felt through the lives she healed, the students she taught, and the family she held so dear.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Binkley-Ross Funeral. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Elkville Cemetery. Those planning to attend are invited to arrive at the cemetery shortly before 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be directed to St. Francis Animal rescue in Murphysboro, Illinois. Please visit www.binkleyross.com to leave condolences online.