Josephine “Jo” Abbott, née Garrard, was born in the town of Gallup, N.M., on Aug.10, 1933, to her two parents, Edward Byron Garrard and Estella “Stella” Garrard née Barela; along with her siblings, Tim Garrard, Bee Gill, Byron Garrard and Ladine Garrard. She grew to become not just a bright and joyful young woman, but a beautiful one to her core. She and her husband, Dr. Kenneth H. Abbott II, lived a long and joyful life together, before he was laid to rest in 2017. She lived her remaining years surrounded by loving family in McMinnville with a strong passion for her family, her church and her Lord and Savior. 

On Nov. 6, 2024, she reached her stopping point in this life and passed on to rest until she is called to her Creator’s side. She was blessed with her six children, Kenneth Abbott III, Debra Rockwell, Darlene Ortner, Dr. Mark Bolton, Dr. Renee Salansky, and Scott Abbott; and her 20 grandchildren, as well as numerous great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother, Byron Garrard and sister, Ladine Garrard. 

Her memorial service will be held at the McMinnville Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Nov. 9 at 4 p.m. Those friends and family who cannot make it to the memorial will be welcomed at 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faulkner Springs Christian School. 

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home and High's Cremations, Inc. are in charge of arrangements.

Southern Standard

(McMinnville, Tenn.) Nov. 8, 2024