Jo Anne Swezey (Maghe), 89, of Oronogo, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. She was born May 28, 1936, in Franklin, Kansas, to Joe and Josephine Rhodes Maghe.
Jo Anne grew up in Franklin, where she attended Franklin Grade School and graduated from Northeast High School. She began her nursing education in the Diploma Nursing Program in Fort Scott, Kansas, before starting her family. Her passion for caring for others continued through her work with Dr. Ingram in Kansas City. She later returned to her hometown, where she devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her children. Jo Anne was deeply proud of her work as a nurse — a calling that allowed her to care for others with compassion and purpose. The skills she developed not only blessed the lives of her patients but also enriched the way she cared for her own family.
Her deep love for God and His word led her into many years of ministry, where she touched countless hearts through her unwavering faith. Through Spirit of Revival Ministry, she ministered to women’s groups and traveled extensively, sharing the message of God’s love and the light of His word wherever she went.
Jo Anne cherished reading, especially scripture and Bible studies, often finding comfort and inspiration in God’s word. She loved spiritual music and traditional hymns, which uplifted her soul and deepened her faith. Her love for music even led her to write original Christian songs, heartfelt expressions of her devotion. Beyond her ministry, Jo Anne will be remembered for her sweet tea, lively conversations, and spunky personality that brought joy and laughter to those around her.
On May 30, 1958, Jo Anne married Walter Swezey in Miami, Oklahoma. She is survived by her husband, Walter; her five children, Jeff (Kathy) Swezey, Tim Swezey, Mark (Kim) Swezey, Lana Swezey, and Scott (Jane) Swezey; 11 grandchildren, Justin, Jessee, Meg, Josh, Tanner, Cassie, Jordan, Hunter, Ryleigh, Montana, and Wyatt; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Josephine Maghe; her brothers, Jackie and Jo Lee Maghe; and her granddaughter, Breanna Swezey.
Graveside services will be at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Pittsburg, Kansas with Pastor Jeff Rose officiating. Friends may call from 3 to 5 P.M. Tuesday at the Bedene Funeral Home at Arma, Kansas. The family suggests memorials to the Samaritans Purse Fund. Donations may be sent to or left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712.
Condolence(1)-
Mary Self says
September 15, 2025 at 8:12 pmMy condolences to Walter and the children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. I remember JO Anne for as long as I can remember. I was born and raised in Franklin. I was good friends with and a class mate of Joe Lees. My mother was good friends with Joe and Josie all their lives. And Jo Anne had been in the same class as my older sister Louise and they were quite good friends having gone all thru school together beginning at Franklin Grade School thru Arma High School. So our families were quite intertwined many years ago. We Franklin people always stuck together. Great little town.
Mary Wivel Self