Jo-Ann Margaret (James) Duvall

Jo-Ann Margaret Duvall entered into the world on February 7, 1935, embraced by her mother Marie Edwards and her Grandparents, Grant and Lucy Edwards. Jo-Ann began her journey in Cincinnati, Ohio, attending the historic Zion Baptist Church. Her best friend Skippy was her sidekick and closest pal. Upon moving to Kirkwood, Missouri she would be further embraced by a rich lineage. Armstead Arnold, an original freedman who was an intricate part of Kentucky Town, was her great-grandfather. Kirkwood, Missouri, was ever dear to her heart. She attended J. Milton Turner School, which is on the National Registry of Historic places, and her beloved Unity Baptist Church where her grandfather, Grant Edwards, Sr., served as pastor. JoAnn met life-long friends at Vashon High School in the city of St. Louis. Her commitment to the Lord grew stronger and she became a invaluable resource for many to glean from. In her early years, she served as a pianist for Old Community Baptist Church and also for the children’s choir at Fifth Missionary Baptist Church. She served faithfully by her husband’s side, the late Rev. Dr. Clarence J. Duvall, Sr. Her love for introducing young people to Christ shined brightly through serving as the Superintendent of the Church School and as a passionate Junior Teacher. Jo-Ann became a valuable Vacation Bible School resource for many churches as well as a powerhouse teacher for the Berean District’s Minister’s Wives. She also served as the Dean of Christian Education for the Berean District Association as well as Chief Cook and Bottle washer for Berean House. Jo-Ann was a vital part of the Mission program, serving as the sponsor for the Junior Matrons and working diligently with Missionaries Carroll and Lily Broadfoot to provide aide in the country of Haiti. Jo-Ann loved her husband Clarence. They were considered to be a devoted duo for Christ. Not only was she a dutiful wife, she was an exceptional mother, grandmother and great- grandmother. Jo-Ann was a phenomenal cook and she had a charismatic flair for decorating that balanced a warm and inviting yet contemporary feeling. Jo-Ann loved music and she had a melodious voice that was used to the glory of God. She was loyal to her family and friends, and truthful. She didn’t hesitate to say what was on her mind. She will forever be indebted to her friends Mildred Jones, Alfreda Vance, Velma Scott, Earnece Walker and the late Naomi Henry, among others she held dear. Jo-Ann embraced the Golden Rule as well as these sayings and scriptures that those who worked with her will remember. Plan your work. Work your plan. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ~ Philippians 4:13 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding; In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. ~ Proverbs 3:5-6 History always played a part of Jo-Ann ‘s journey. On Mother’s Day in 1964, her husband, the late Rev. Dr. Clarence James Duvall, Sr. preached his first sermon as Pastor of Fifth Missionary Baptist Church. She put on her work boots and worked tirelessly by his side in her role as First Lady. On Sunday morning, May 12, 2024, another fateful Mother’s Day 60 years later at a half past eight, our angel soared toward the heavens, her work completed, and reclaimed her place by her husband’s side singing “There's a sweet, sweet Spirit in this place, and I know that it's the Spirit of the Lord”. Jo-Ann Margaret Duvall leaves to mourn her passing, her children: Victor (Lyn) Hubbard, Monica Gill, Karen Hubbard, Rev. Clarence J. Duvall, Jr., Leslie Duvall, and Rev. Phillip (LaVerne) Duvall. Eight grandchildren: Cobee Gill, Angela (Lucy) Hubbard-Fragozo, George Galloway, Valyn Emsweller, Alisha Duvall, Alana Duvall, Liberty Duvall and Serenity Duvall; Five great-grandchildren: Hassan, Leilani, Coda, Cruz, and Zora. Two devoted nieces: Renee Madison and Ida Johnson. Bonus family members: Shawn Vance, Anthony Scott, William Goldschmidt, and Clarentz Guerrier. Her Gal Pals, Mildred Jones, Alfreda Vance, Velma Scott and Earnece Walker. Her favorite cousins: Pat Redmond, Harriett Vaughn and Amanda Hollis along with many other cousins, friends, and her Fifth Missionary Baptist Church Family.

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