Obituary of Jo Ann Marple

Jo Ann Marple passed away on Sunday, November 15, 2020. She was 63 years old.

Born in Somerville, NJ, to parents Marvin and Josephine (nee Cipparulo) Marple, Jo Ann grew up in Peapack-Gladstone, NJ graduating from Bernards High in 1975 and RVCC in 1977. She has lived in Brick for over 30 years.

Jo Ann worked for The Brass Penny in Gladstone and later became a banquet manager and wedding planner for Crystal Point Yacht Club in Point Pleasant and The English Manor in Ocean Township.  She was recognized in an article published in The Knot, for detail and personal attention.

Jo Ann adored animals and dedicated herself to rescuing dogs, but her heart was big enough to consider all the wildlife in her backyard, including the planting of milkweed to attract butterflies. An avid gardener, she loved sharing her harvest with others. She loved craft shows and antiques, but her time was best spent with those she loved.

Jo Ann is survived by her sisters, Cynthia (William) Behrens of Califon, NJ, and Kathleen (Edward) Kocot of Long Valley, NJ, nieces Melissa Lipovsky, Cheryl Ardovini, nephews Timothy and Kevin Kocot, six grandnieces and grandnephews, her canine companions Elwood and Winston, and several dear friends.

Due to Covid-19, Jo Ann’s Visitation and Funeral Mass will be private for her family.  She will be laid to rest with her parents at Holy Cross Cemetery in Basking Ridge.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Jo Ann’s memory can be made to the Popcorn Park Zoo, PO Box 43, Forked River, NJ 08731 (Attn: Renee).