Mary Johanna (Jo) Dudek, 82, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to her family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Jones Funeral Home Chapel, in Jacksonville, NC. Family and friends are invited to attend and share memories as they honor and celebrate Jo's life.

Jo was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose kindness and caring spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. A graduate of Ohio State University, Jo was a lifelong educator who first taught special needs students, then elementary and finally high school students for almost 3 decades. She dedicated her life to her family and students.

Jo is preceded in death by her loving parents, John Sr. and Flora Rocco, and siblings, John Jr. and Anita.

She is survived by her children, John Dudek III and his wife, Carolyn of Maryville, TN; and Lynette Thomas and her husband, Terry of Wilmington, NC. She was a VERY proud grandmother to Bradley Thomas and his wife Sydney, John Dudek IV, Nathaniel Dudek and his wife Xena, Seth Thomas, Andrew Dudek, Noah Thomas, Eli Thomas and Faith Thomas, as well as her great granddaughters Tobyn Thomas, Maryn Thomas and Annaliese Dudek, all of whom brought immense pride and happiness to her life.

Jo will be remembered for her warm heart and hugs, unwavering pride and love for her family, and the many cherished memories she created throughout her life. She exuded compassion and wisdom, with a gentle yet strong presence.

She found great joy in cheering for her beloved Braves baseball team (or cursing at them), reading nonstop, shopping for useless bric-a-brac and flavored coffee, and especially spending time with family.

Though she is no longer with us, her love and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Flowers may be sent to Jones Funeral Home, 303 Chaney Ave., Jacksonville, NC 28540.