Jo
Staley
Josephine “Jo” Marie Staley
Jo Marie Staley (nee Ditzler) passed away on Sunday, March 23rd at age 76. She is survived by her two children, Andrew and Samantha Staley, her sister, Jill Bennett, her nephews Chad and Rod Bennett, and countless friends whom she adored.
Jo was born in Omaha, Nebraska on June 6, 1948, to her loving parents, Albert and Beulah Ditzler. Growing up in Council Bluffs, Iowa, she went to Thomas Jefferson High School, where she was a cheerleader for the Tee Jay Yellowjackets! She attended University of Northern Iowa and graduated in 1971 where she studied Business Education. Not long after graduating, she moved to Milwaukee where she taught at Riverside and Washington High Schools. The classes she taught ranged from business, to accounting, and even short-hand, believe it or not! As computers became more prevalent, she adapted with the times and began to teach word-processing as well. Her career in education lasted for 35 wonderful years.
After retiring from teaching, she volunteered at the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Marcus Performing Arts Center. But Jo had the energy to power an entire building, so she went off to work for the Milwaukee Brewers. She was a natural fit to work in Guest Relations, as she had a bubbly personality and an inherent ability to serve others. In addition, it was just plain fun!
Jo was an active member of her church, King of Glory Lutheran. She volunteered as treasurer, and loved to provide food for the Wednesday luncheon. She had been a member of King of Glory for 42 beloved years.
Jo was as active as one could be, and was friendly to everyone. She loved playing tennis at the Village Club, and was an avid golfer. She loved playing cards and games with good friends, and she absolutely loved her Wisconsin sports teams! She enjoyed Broadway musicals, history and fantasy TV shows and movies, as well as happy, upbeat music.
Jo was very independent, and had the most sincere qualities. Those who loved her knew her as joyful and cheery, warm and loving, helpful and kind, and humble and magnanimous. She is and will be truly missed by all. May her spirit fly, and may her soul rest in peace.
In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, April 4th, 2025.
King of Glory Lutheran Church
4330 South 84th Street
Greenfield, WI 53228
Social Hour at 12pm
Luncheon and Celebration of Life to follow at 1pm
Enjoyed working with her with The Milwaukee Brewers, was my Business Law Teacher, Milwaukee Madison, great teacher, every student liked her, as did I.
My deepest sympathy to you, Andrew and Samantha, and also to her extended family and large circle of friends.
I knew Jo through my sister Pat, who loved Jo very much. I enjoyed spending time with Jo watching many Packer games along with my sister and dad and when visiting at my sister’s house. She was so kind, giving and enjoyable to spend time with. She will be missed.
May you find peace with warm memories of her.
Rest in peace Jo🙏
You were loved by all that knew you and will be truly missed
I taught with Jo at Milwaukee Madison High School. She was a wonderful teacher and a delightful person. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her. I am so sorry for your loss. Janet Dunn
I am so sorry to hear of Jo’s passing.
We walked to grade and high school
Almost every day!
I will miss her!
Condolences and sincere sympathies to her family.