Jo Denton

Jo Evelyn Denton passed away peacefully in her Bedford home she loved so much on October 8, 2024, at the age of 85. She is now with her Heavenly Father and fully healed.

Born on January 10, 1939, in Harlingen, Texas, Jo spent her early years in Brownsville before earning her Bachelor’s degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood in 1961 and her Master’s degree from the University of North Texas in Denton in 1967.

With a remarkable 37-year career as an educator, Jo taught English at Richland High School and left a profound impact on her students. She knew sharing her love of literature was her calling. A dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Arlington since 1963, she taught in youth and children’s programs for over 25 years. Jo was also involved with the International Friends of First Baptist Church and a committed member of Women on Mission.

Beyond her teaching and church activities, Jo volunteered at Mission Arlington, focusing on computer data entry. She was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Society of Women Educators, Theta Theta Chapter, and held membership in the Texas Retired Teachers Association and the Texas State Teachers Association as a life member.

In her retirement Jo enjoyed reading on her kindle, rooting for the Texas Rangers and Dallas Mavericks, socializing with her friends, and participating in social and ministry events with her church family. She was grateful for her friendships with former students, colleagues, and caring neighbors and enjoyed using social media to stay in touch with her wide circle of friends.

Jo is preceded in death by her parents, Dean McGuire and Maude Denton, her brother, Dean M. Denton Jr., and her sister, Bettye Shaver. She is survived by her niece, Marcia Shore and her husband Dennis; nephews Dean Shaver and his wife Leisha, and Robert Denton and his wife Kathy; along with several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Jo’s invaluable contributions to education and her community will be fondly remembered. In lieu of flowers, it was her wish that donations be made to Mission Arlington, 210 W. South Street, Arlington, Texas 76010.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 25, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Arlington where friends, family, and former students are invited to celebrate Jo's remarkable life, her dedication to education and her love for her Lord.