Jo Ann Winn

Jo Ann Winn, affectionately known as Maman Jo, was born on December 10, 1944, in Bastrop, Texas, to the late Edward and Jewel Franklin. At an early age, Jo Ann accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and began a lifelong walk with Him, grounded in faith, love, and service.

Jo Ann married the love of her life, Oris Winn, and together they shared a beautiful union built on faith and devotion. As a dedicated Deaconess of New Hope Baptist Church in Austin, Texas, Jo Ann served faithfully, offering encouragement and kindness to all who knew her.

She spent over 20 years working as a housekeeper at Ascension Seton Hospital, where her diligence and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on both patients and colleagues.

Jo Ann was blessed with two children: Shiran Spears (Bearin) and Stanley Kirby. On Friday, May 2, 2025, at the age of 80, Jo Ann peacefully transitioned from this life to her eternal home. She now rejoins her beloved husband, Oris Winn, and her son, Stanley Kirby, in the presence of the Lord.

Jo Ann enjoyed shopping and traveling. She especially loved going to Las Vegas and visiting her stepdaughter in Atlanta, Georgia. But most of all, she had a deep passion for collecting the most beautiful hats, each with a matching outfit. Sometimes, she would even wear the same outfit with a different hat just to create a new look. Her impeccable style and love for fashion were a vibrant part of her identity.

Her memory will be lovingly cherished by her daughter Shiran Spears (Bearin); her sisters Frankie McDonald (Alvin) and Mary Jo Franklin; her stepchildren Oris Winn and Ruth Winn; 12 Grandchildren, 7 Great-Grandchildren, and 1 Great-Great-Grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Jewel Franklin, husband Oris Winn, brother James Franklin, sister Ruby Mae Washington, and son Stanley Kirby.

Jo Ann’s life was a testimony of strength, grace, and unwavering faith. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will forever live in our hearts.

Family and Friends will gather for Visitation at Elgin Funeral Home, Thursday, May 15th from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church of Austin, Friday, May 16th at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Shiloh Cemetery in Bastrop, Texas.