Jo Anne Munsell

Jo Anne Munsell, age 71 of Purcell, passed away Friday, March 21, 2025. Jo Anne Gentling was born December 5, 1953 in Santa Monica, CA, the oldest of 3 children born to John Harold Gentling and Virginia Leone (Geyer) Gentling. She was raised in Costa Mesa, CA and attended school there, graduating from Estancia High School with the Eagles Class of 1972. It wasn’t long before she welcomed her first daughter, Jennifer. While working as an EKG Tech at Pacifica Hospital, Jo had a chance encounter with Randall Gene Munsell, a young serviceman. He was immediately smitten and certain she was 'the one.' Their wedding took place on May 5, 1975, at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas. He welcomed her daughter Jennifer, and they began a beautiful life together. Over time, their family grew to include daughters Kristin and Melissa, followed by their son Justin. Randall’s Military Career afforded them the opportunity to travel all over, and so home always looked a little different. While visiting friends near Lexington, Randall fell in love with this area. By 1990, they settled in Purcell and have called it home ever since. Jo cherished her family. She was a constant support in her children’s lives and this carried through for her grandchildren. She was a good listener, a chaperone and was always there when you needed her. She loved music of all kinds along with singing and dancing. She passionately followed sports, with an unwavering devotion to the Dallas Cowboys. She found joy in gardening and tackling puzzles. Jo Anne was a beautiful soul and an inspiration for all who knew her. She will be dearly missed! She was preceded in death by: her parents, John and Virginia Gentling and her favorite aunt, Gretchen Cutshall. Jo is survived by: her loving husband Randall Munsell of the home; children, Jen Novak and husband Bill of San Marcos, CA, Kristin Barber and husband Mike of Lexington, Melissa Hill and husband Curtis of Lexington and Justin Munsell of Purcell; her sister, Cindy Hewitson of Palm Springs, CA; brother, Greg Gentling and wife Nargess Fassih of Malibu, CA; her pride and joy, grandchildren, Nolan Novak, Nate Novak, Nixon Novak, Lacey Findley and husband Hunter, Lindsey Barber, Leslie Barber, Caden Hill and Greenlee Hill, and a host of other family and friends. We are deeply grateful for the love and support we've received during this difficult time. In honor of JoAnne, and in lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to the National MS Society in her memory. This would be a meaningful way to celebrate her life and the values she held dear. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 3:30 PM Friday, April 4, 2025 at Lexington First Baptist Church.

Jo Anne Munsell

December 5, 1953 - March 21, 2025