Sarah Jo Winans

Sarah Jo Winans, 63, of Biloxi, MS, passed away January 11, 2018 at her home in Biloxi. She was born September 9, 1954 to Joseph Leroy and Sarah Elizabeth Winans of Canton, MS. Sarah Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Leroy and Sarah Elizabeth Winans. She is survived by her brother, Joe (Dee) Winans of Theodore, AL; her sisters, Lisa (Charles) Secrest of Destin, FL and Terri Winans of Biloxi; her niece, Jennifer (Willie) McGonagle of Biloxi; her nephews, Michael (Beth) Fayard of Houston, TX, Jody (Nicole) Winans of Ocean Springs and Marcus (Andrea) Peacock of Fort Worth, TX; many cousins, great nieces and nephews; and her beloved cat, Anna. She loved each and every one dearly. She especially looked forward to her daily visits with neighbors, Alice Ard and Mr. Berry and also phone calls from her faithful cousin, Susan Sexton. Family and friends were so important to her. Sarah Jo graduated from Biloxi High School in 1973 and did some continuing education studies at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where she earned a teacher assistant certificate and a degree in early childhood education. Prior to her disabilities, she worked in the health care industry with exceptional children and the elderly. She worked for HCTCEC for over 12 years assisting exceptional children. She also worked for 5 years at Quality Home Health Care. She had a “gift” in caring for the elderly. In her retirement Sarah Jo worked with all types of crafts which she often gifted to friends and family. She also loved reading and watching Hallmark movies. Sarah Jo was a member of and regularly attended The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Biloxi. She loved her church family and they loved and cared for her. She knew her Savior. Her faith was strong. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Sarah Jo’s name to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 14928 Big Ridge Road D'Iberville, MS 39532 or the Humane Society of South Mississippi, 2615 25th Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501. Her memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints located at 14928 Big Ridge Road, D'Iberville, MS. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue, Biloxi is in charge of arrangements.