Cheryl Joan "Jo" Colburn, age 88, of Remlap, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, Tuesday, October 4, 2022.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Avery "Leon" Colburn, as well as her parents Clarence & Eula Mae Crawford; her brothers Billy, Jack, Dave, and Daryl Crawford.

She is survived by her daughters Sheila (Rodney) Mackey; Jenny (Paul Jr.)Thomas; brother Richard (Sherry) Crawford; sister-in-law Dorothy Crawford;  grandchildren Rhonda (Michael) Alesce; Zachary Mackey; Jessica (Justin) Johnston; Mallory (Kyle) Sanford; Paul (Ronni) Thomas III; two great grandchildren, Riley Mackey & Hayden Johnston.

Jo was born July 11, 1934 to Clarence & Eula Mae Crawford in Trafford, Alabama. She was a poor country girl with strong Christian values and a tremendous love for her family and friends. She worked hard from the time she was five years old doing tasks to earn extra money.

Jo graduated from Warrior High School Class of 1952. Upon graduation, she would begin a career at Southern Bell and marry the love of her life in 1953, Avery "Leon" Colburn. They would eventually become a career military family after Leon joined the United States Air Force. Together, they would travel and see most of America, as well as several trips to Europe, including 2 tours in London, England where both of their daughters were born.

Among her many accomplishments was graduating from Chaminade University of Honolulu and a long and fulfilling career as a Christian Educator. She had a heart to serve others and went on yearly mission trips to help plant churches all over the United States. She was always helping others, family, friends, as well as strangers. She remained an active member of Huffman Baptist Church where she enjoyed teaching Sunday School, as well as helping in Bible School. She was also a member of the Alabama Business and Professional Women's Club where she held many offices.

However, her favorite joy in life was her children and especially her grandchildren as well as her great grands. She loved God and emulated His behavior by serving others. She gave of her time, money, and love expecting nothing in return.

A visitation will be held at Messmer Goodwin Funeral Home on Saturday, October 8, 2022 from 1:00-3:00pm with a service at 3:00pm.  Interment will follow at Trafford Baptist Church Cemetery.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 NKJV