Jo Katheryn Young (nee Jump), age 80 of Manhattan, IL, formerly of Lockport, IL, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2026, with her loving family at her side. Survived by her children Tammy Fox and Russell (Diane) Young, grandchildren Jillian Corbin, Alex Szepelak, Kyle Szepelak, Emma Young, and Cassie Young, great grandchildren Gianna, Marcus, Lucas, Lily, Eddie, Will, and Mabel, sister Peggy Ziesmer, and nephews Mark (Sarah) and Michael (Michelle) Ziesmer. Preceded in death by her husband Russell Young, parents Hayes and Marguerite (nee Warren) Jump, brother Bill (late Sandy) Jump, son-in-law John Fox, and nephews Brian and Shaun Jump.

Jo was born in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. She was raised in Illinois, attending Saint Jude Catholic School of New Lenox, IL in her elementary years and graduating from Joliet Central High School. She worked various jobs in her young adulthood before she joined Argonne National Laboratory, where she worked as a secretary in the computer science division for over 25 years until her retirement.

Above all, Jo placed her family at the forefront, raising her children with pride, joy, and the nature of a best friend and number one confidante. She married her beloved Russ in 1981, expanding her family with him and carrying on as a pivotal matriarch. Her love, care, and support for those closest to her were best shown through her actions in calling them nearly every day. Jo was especially proud of her grandchildren and proved to be their biggest cheerleader. She was gifted in the art of gifting for countless occasions. She created irreplaceable magic with every holiday, and when Christmas came around, she reigned undefeated as a host and decorator. She wrapped her packages to perfection and her tree with gold and lights, pouring out her warmth and enthusiasm in the best ways she knew how.

Jo was notably handy with everything she put her heart into. She was crafty, artistic, skilled in sewing, and baked the most delicious desserts. She was also a voracious mystery novel reader and a dedicated gardener—with a special love for her tomatoes! Her passion for life and the light she emitted to those who loved her most will be deeply missed.

Visitation for Jo will be held at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 from 9:30AM until the time of Service at 11:00AM, also at the funeral home. Interment at Lockport Cemetery, Lockport, IL will immediately follow. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.