Edna Jo Bartel, 84, of Lee's Summit, passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord on May 6, 2026. Born on March 14, 1942, to Howard and Lorene Thompson, Jo lived a life marked by faith, compassion, creativity, and deep devotion to her family.

Jo was an extraordinary mother, grandmother, teacher, entrepreneur, and friend, whose love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life. Affectionately known as “Naunee” by her grandchildren, she was loving, caring, and endlessly supportive. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

A talented seamstress and creative spirit, Jo owned and operated a fabric store, where she shared her passion for sewing and design with others. After selling her business, she began a second career in education, teaching kindergarten in the Center School District in Kansas City for many years. She deeply loved teaching and formed lasting bonds with her students, many of whom returned years later to visit the teacher who had such a meaningful impact on their lives.

Jo was born and lived in Roodhouse, Illinois before moving to St. Joseph Missouri where she met the love of her life, Edmund Mack Bartel Jr. Following their marriage, they settled in Kansas City. Jo and Ed were blessed with three children: a baby boy, Angel, who preceded her in death, and daughters Elizabeth and Kristen.

Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edmund Mack Bartel Jr.; her parents, Howard and Lorene Thompson; her sister, Sally Hodge; and her infant son, Angel.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth and Donnie Moberly, and Kristen and Joseph Castiglione; her cherished grandchildren, Kirsten and Cooper Doolin, Elijah Moberly, Corey Moberly, Joseph Castiglione Jr., and Jonathan and Jenna Castiglione; her great-grandchild, Zaire Moberly; and her nephew and his wife, David and Stacey Hodge, along with great-nephew Caleb Hodge.

Jo’s family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Silverado Memory Care and Ascend Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to their mother during her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Center School District Educational Foundation at https://www.centereducationfoundation.org/.