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Life story

" Jo Edna Draper Grante, a beloved sister, aunt, and stepmother, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2024, just shy of her 74th birthday. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on August 20, 1950, Jo Edna was the cherished daughter of the late Fred and Cleopatra Jones Draper, who instilled in her a deep sense of family, faith, and resilience.

Jo Edna was known for her grace, warmth, and unwavering love for those around her. She was a source of wisdom and strength to her siblings, Augusta Jean Gilliland (deceased), Fred Albert Draper Jr., and Omalisa Dionne Draper. She lovingly carried forward the memories of her late husband, Jullian Grante, and embraced her role as a devoted stepmother.

Upon graduating from Melrose High School in Memphis, Tennessee, she continued her studies at Memphis State University graduating with a Masters Degree in Accounting.

After graduating college, Jo started a 30 year career with the Department of Treasury Internal Revenue Service as an Tax Auditor taking her from Memphis, TN to Macon, GA and finally to Washington DC where she retired. After retirement she trained and worked as an EMT and CPR Instructor with Mary Washington Healthcare.

Jo loved God and enjoyed sharing the Good News of Jesus to those she encountered, often holding Bible study in her home alongside her husband Jullian.

Her life was rich with love and connection. Jo Edna was a proud and doting aunt to Brian Gilliland, Stephanie Gilliland Frazier, Glenda Gilliland, Veronique Wright, and Jason Draper, each of whom she supported and encouraged throughout their lives. She was always quick with a kind word, a listening ear, and a smile that could light up any room.

Though she has left us in this world, Jo Edna’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched. She will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her enduring compassion, and her boundless capacity to love. Jo Edna Draper Grante lived a life filled with purpose and kindness, and her legacy will forever be celebrated by those who knew and loved her.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to [charity/foundation], causes that were close to Jo Edna’s heart.

A memorial service for Jo Edna Draper Grante, will be held 11:00 AM on September 28, 2024, at Potomac Valley Church, 12500 Chewing Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22407

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