January 19, 1937 — March 19, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jo Ann Linnell, who passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at the age of 89.

Jo Ann was born on January 19, 1937, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to William and Alexandria Benwick. She carried strong family values throughout her life. Jo Ann was the beloved wife of the late James Arthur “Jim” Linnell, with whom she shared many years of love, dedication, and family. Jo Ann graduated from Cariboo College with an Early Childhood Education diploma and went on to found Jimmy Cricket Preschool, which was truly her calling. She later taught at Kay Bingham and Parkcrest Elementary Schools in Kamloops BC, where she created many lasting memories with her students and their families. Her passion for working with children left a lasting impact on her community.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Cherie (Steve), Jimmy (Shannon), and Jamie; her grandchildren: Angela, Kaitlin, Nikolas, McKenzie, and Tori; and her many cherished great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Jim, her parents William and Alexandria and her siblings Johnnie, Nestor, Mary, Victoria, William Henry, and Elsie Benwick.

Jo Ann had a creative spirit and found great joy in quilting, sewing, and art. She expressed her love through the pieces she made. Jo Ann will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. Her presence brought comfort to many, and her memory will live on in all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

 

• Date : 2026-03-19
• Location : Kamloops