JoAnn L. Ott

JoAnn Louise Ott (nee Parrish), of Saint Charles, MO, passed away Friday, May 1, 2026, at the age of 88. Devoted wife of the late David Ott; cherished daughter of the late Earl Parrish and the late Paula Parrish-Antrainer; devoted mother of Greg Ott, Cindy (the late Philip) Eberle, Steve (Terri) Ott, Julie (Lee) Hardy; loving grandmother of Andrea (Mason Pelt) Eberle, David (Tammy) Eberle, Katie (Nick Jasinski) Eberle, Josh Eberle, Jenny (Caleb) Freeman, Chrissy (Andy) Freeman, Adler Hardy and Anson Hardy; great-grandmother of Mya, Grace, Addilyn, Colton and Henry; She is preceded in death by her brother, David (the late Barbara) Parrish and a beloved niece, and is also survived by other loving nieces, one nephew and other relatives and friends.

JoAnn and David shared 68 years of marriage and a remarkable love story. They were inseparable – holding hands, dancing, playing bridge, watching football and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals. They also enjoyed attending the symphony and the theater, and cherished their daily cocktail hour, where JoAnn enjoyed her signature “Tab”hattan. It is only fitting that they passed within one week of one another.

JoAnn was small but mighty - intelligent, spirited, and unafraid to stand up for what she believed in or for those she loved. At her core, she was a caregiver. She devoted her life to nurturing others – raising her children, supporting her extended family, caring for her mother who lived to 106, tending lovingly to her husband and even showing compassion for her own caregivers.

She brought energy and enthusiasm to everything she did. She loved to dance, sing, shop, and travel - especially to the beach and the lake. She shared her love of culture and learning by leading students on several trips to Europe through Incarnate Word Academy. JoAnn was also an avid reader who participated in book clubs and engaged in thoughtful conversations. She also translated some works from French to English, including the story of a World War II veteran's regiment, and enjoyed writing stories of her own.

A founding member of Lutheran Church of the Living Christ, JoAnn sang in the choir and was active in church life. Her faith was an important part of her life and guided her compassion for others.

She dedicated more than 20 years teaching English and French, shaping the lives of countless students. Even after retirement, she continued to share her talents as the editor of the St. Louis Symphony newsletter, combining her love of language and the arts.

JoAnn was dearly loved and will be deeply missed. Her legacy of strength, devotion, and care for others will live on in all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in JoAnn's name to Alzheimer's Association.