Mary "Jo" Blakey, 66, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away Saturday afternoon, October 4, 2008 at Good Samaritan Village in Winfield.

Born on October 1, 1942 in San Diego, California, she was the daughter of Gyer and Cecil (Hawkins) Rarrick. She was raised and received her education in Fallbrook, graduating from Fallbrook High School in 1960. She spent the first three years of her life on a farm in Grenola, Kansas with her mother while her father was serving in the war. Her mother passed away when she was only three years old and she then returned to California with her father. Jo would often spend her summers with family on the farm in Grenola, Kansas.

She married Jerald Hartman after high school, there were four children born to this union. The Couple later divorced. In 1977 she moved to Winfield, where she worked at Gott. On November 17, 1978 she was united in marriage to Larry J. Blakey in Winfield. The couple remained in Winfield where they have lived for the last 30 years.

Jo owned and operated H&N Laundry Service for over 7 years. She then worked for as a cook at Good Samaritan Village, and later managed the salad bar at Western Sizzlin.
After being diagnosed with cancer she spent her time as a volunteer for both Meals on Wheels, and Habitat for Humanity.

She enjoyed collecting sunflowers, bird houses, cardinals, and owls. She also enjoyed sewing, cooking, demolition derbies, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

Her family includes:
Her husband: Larry J Blakey of the home;
Her sons: Hugh Hartman of Winfield, KS; Casey Hartman and wife, Tracy of Temecula, CA;
Her daughters: Torrie King and husband Don of Riverside, CA; Gwen Folk and husband Dennis of Lake Matthews, CA;
Her 9 grandchildren: Sarah, Craig, Kyle, Nathan, Eric, Bryce, Brittany, Carson, Clayton; and
Her 2 great-grandchildren: Paislee, and Rylee.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Joseph Rarrick.

In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorials be given in Jo's name for Hospice Care of Kansas. Contributions may be made through Miles Funeral Service, in Winfield. A private memorial service was held on Monday October 6.