Katherine Jo Looney

November 30, 1930 – November 23, 2024

Katherine Jo Looney, lovingly known as Jo, entered her heavenly home on November 23, 2024, just shy of her 94th birthday. Born on November 30, 1930, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Ira J. and Nellie Kesterson McMahill, Jo's life was one of love, service, and unwavering faith. Though her childhood took her to Texas and Arkansas, Oklahoma City was where she spent her adult years, building a life and legacy cherished by all who knew her.

The second youngest of nine siblings, Jo was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 48 years, Royce Dale Looney, her parents Ira J. and Nellie McMahill, stepmother Faye McMahill, her brothers Charles, Ira J. Jr., George Stephen, Harold Gene, and Robert Dean, her sisters Lela Mae Oden, Mary Jane McMahill, and Virginia Lee Griffin, and her son-in-law Billy Ray Bissell.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Kathey Jean Bissell of Oklahoma City, her grandson Jason Ray and his wife Leslie, and her two great-grandsons, Hunter Ray and his wife Avery, and Leeland James, all of Commerce, Oklahoma. Jo also leaves behind a multitude of nieces, nephews, and a host of dear friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity.

Throughout her life, Jo was known by many names—Jody in her youth, Jo, Aunt Jo, and Grandma Jo as she grew older—but she was always known for her warm heart and caring spirit. A 1949 graduate of Prague High School in Prague, Oklahoma, Jo met her soulmate, Dale, during her family's time in Board Camp, Arkansas, and they shared a beautiful love story.

Jo's life was defined by her love for others. She cared for numerous family members throughout the years, embodying selflessness and compassion. Her faith in Jesus Christ was her guiding light, and she faithfully served Him as a nursery worker and church member at Walker Avenue Baptist Church, later contributing her talents as a kitchen helper at Southwood Baptist Church and Rancho Village Baptist Church.

A talented seamstress and cook, Jo delighted in making her home a place of warmth and hospitality. She also loved listening to gospel music, whether through her collection of CDs or on television. After her daughter started kindergarten, Jo began working outside the home, first as grocery clerk and later at Air Refiner, Inc., where she retired after 16 dedicated year Jo will be remembered as a woman of grace, thoughtfulness, and love, always putting others before herself. Her family and friends will forever treasure the countless ways she brightened their lives. She will be deeply missed but lovingly celebrated.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Vondel Smith & Sons Mortuary South Colonial Chapel, 6934 S. Western Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73139, on Saturday, November 30, at 10:00 AM. The family will be present to greet and visit with friends and loved ones starting at 9:00 AM.