Jo Ann (Hildreth) Van Gilder

Jo Ann (Hildreth) Van Gilder, 79, of Zanesville passed away on Monday January 29th, 2024 after a long struggle with Alzheimer-type dementia. Born October 2nd 1944 in Spencer WV she was the eldest daughter of Lester and Ruth (Ogden) Hildreth.

She is survived by her husband Dr. John E. Van Gilder, her children J. Robert W. Van Gilder and Laura L. (Van Gilder) Grimes, her grandchildren Adrienne M. Van Gilder, Daniel H. Shaver and Emma J. Shaver, and her great grandson Eric B. Shaver. Also, brother Roy (Gaylene) Hildreth and cousins Robert Hinkel, Linda (Hinkel) Ciesielski, Karen (Ogden) Kopas and Jim (Shirley) Hildreth. She is preceded in death by her daughter Cynthia R. Van Gilder and sister Betty S. Hildreth.

Jo Ann graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and worked as the office manager for her husband’s medical practices when needed. She was a highly regarded member of the Zanesville community and was a member of several organizations: All-Around Club, Senior Bethesda League, Beaux Arts, Changing Seasons Garden Club, Madison Society of Literacy, Zanesville Day Nursery, Muskingum County Medical Auxiliary, Zanesville Country Club, First Christian Church, and the Shakespeare Society of Zanesville.

Throughout her life she inspired others through her giving nature, kindness, and zest for life. She enjoyed traveling, dancing, and spending time with her family and friends. She was loved by many and will be missed by all.

“Far off thou art, but ever nigh.” Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Friends and family may call from 6:00-8:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 8th, 2024, at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, and from 12:00 noon until time of the Funeral Service at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, February 9th, 2024, also at the funeral home, with Pastor Laureen Roe officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Shelter Society, 1430 Newark Road, Zanesville, OH 43701; or to Genesis Hospice Care, 713 Forest Ave, Zanesville, OH 43701.