Cynthiana — Jo Ellen Blackwood Kearns, 90, of Cynthiana, passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Edgemont Healthcare in Cynthiana.
She was born January 22, 1935, in Elkins, West Virginia, to the late John William and Margaret Virginia Rexrode Blackwood.
Jo Ellen held many titles besides mom and grandma. She was a Harrison County Homemaker, owned and operated the Red Brick House Bed and Breakfast in Falmouth and she and her husband ran the Solid Rock Book Store, also in Falmouth. Jo Ellen sang in many choirs, with church and also with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. She was an Activities Director at Crest Manor Nursing Home in Fairport, NY, as well as at the Harrison County Senior Center. She also loved crafts, working on them or teaching others to paint or work through activities on their own.
Preceding her in death were her husband, Gene Kearns; and son-in-law, Wayne Stewart.
Surviving her are son, Mark (Linnie) Kearns; daughter, Lois Stewart; sister, Donna Blackwood; grandchildren, Mary (Charles) Pulliam, Kayle (Garrett) Johnston, Perry Kearns; and great grandchildren, Hensley Johnston, Banks Johnston.
Services were held Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Ware Funeral Home, in Cynthiana, Dr. Tim Teater lead services.
Burial took place at Battle Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. View Christian Camp, c/o Anchor Christian Church, 375 Beaver Rd., Rochester, NY 14624.
View and sign the guest book at www.warefuneralhome.com.