Jo Ann Hediger

Jo Ann Hediger, 83, of Salem, passed away on March 12, 2026, surrounded by her family at her home. Born on December 6, 1942, in Odin, she was the daughter of Lenard and Mildred (Gillmore) Heinrich. She married the love of her life, Eugene Hediger, on August 3, 1963. He preceded her in death on January 26, 2016.

Jo was raised with a strong work ethic and brought her best to every job. She was a loyal employee of several local businesses, including Demouline’s in Greenville and Centralia, the Old Dress Factory in Centralia, Miss Elaine’s in Centralia, and Winning Edge in Centralia. She attended Barr Christian Shattuc UMC and was part of the Young Christian Chapel.

She believed love was best shown through action. Whether baking beautiful wedding cakes for friends and family, hand-sewing quilts that would warm generations, or preparing her home for gatherings filled with laughter, she gave her time and heart generously. Her kitchen was the center of family life, where she delighted loved ones with home-cooked meals and her famous cherry delight. More than anything, she will be remembered for bringing people together, making others feel welcome, and turning ordinary days into cherished memories.

She is survived by her sons, Rickey Hediger and Douglas Hediger; grandchildren, Justen, Racheal, and Gavin Hediger; great-grandchild, Ryker Anderson; brothers, Les (Renee) Heinrich and Wayne (Carolyn) Heinrich; sisters, Donna Gramlick and Sharon (Dennis) Ohair; seven nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and friends. In addition to her husband, Eugene, she was preceded in death by her parents, Lenard and Mildred Heinrich; her brother-in-law, Howard Gramlick; and her son, Michael Hediger.