Florence, Kentucky – Jo Ann Brown Sorensen, born on June 28, 1940, in Covington, Kentucky, to the late Joseph H. and Mildred Brown, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and dedication to her family.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Edward, two children, Don (Kim) Wilson and Julie (Frank) Baker, two stepchildren, Kelli (Jamie) Archer and Sara (Kirk) Rienke, and her brother, Charles A. Brown. Jo Ann was also blessed with the presence of nine grandchildren and a special great-granddaughter, Kayla.
Jo Ann’s passion for travel took her to various destinations, including Boothbay Harbor, Maine; Charleston and Folly Beach, South Carolina; Gettysburg, Pennsylvania; New Orleans, Louisiana, and the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. She found joy in walks along the beaches, exploring Marginal Way, visiting Civil War battlefields, and treasured family moments, always admiring the beauty of nature’s transitions at sunrise and sunset.
After graduating from Boone County High School in 1958, Jo Ann embarked on a distinguished career. She served in vital roles for the state of Kentucky at the Day Treatment Center in Crittenden, as business manager of the women’s prison in Belleview, and as chief secretary at the Probation and Parole Department in Covington. Her 35-year service with the Kentucky Corrections Cabinet received accolades like the Commissioner’s Award in 1978 and the American Red Cross “Help Can’t Wait Award” in 1998.
Beyond her professional life, Jo Ann co-founded Union Rescue as an EMT, later leading the Florence Rescue Squad, where she ascended to chief status. Post-retirement, she spent over 23 years volunteering at the Dinsmore Homestead, nurturing young minds with a passion for history.
An avid animal lover and member of the Florence Baptist Temple, Jo Ann’s visitation and funeral services will be held at the Florence Baptist Temple on Tuesday, July 22, starting at 10:00 a.m.
Donations in her memory can be made to the Dinsmore Homestead, honoring Jo Ann’s legacy of service and commitment to local history.
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