Mary Jo King, 78, of Concord, NC, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 2, 1947, to Johnny and Inez Staigo, Mary Jo lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Johnny and Inez Staigo; her devoted husband, Donald King; her cherished sister, Ruby Staigo; and her dear son, Brian King.
Mary Jo is survived by her loving family: brother John & wife Patty Staigo; sister Helen & husband Orville Cutshall; son Chris & daughter-in-law Denise King; grandchildren Amber & husband AJ Shoe, Jack & wife Marissa King, Brandi King, Ashley Eyer, and Cloe King; and great-grandchildren McKenzie Shoe, Isaiah King, Addison Shoe, Bubba Shoe, Andrew Eyer, and Nora King. Each of them carries forward her warmth, resilience, and generous spirit.
A gifted cook, Mary Jo was known far and wide for her homemade meals, especially her famous carrot cake, comforting pork chops, and biscuits with rich, savory gravy. Her kitchen was a place of love and laughter, where everyone was welcome and no one ever left hungry.
Mary Jo found deep joy in tending her garden, nurturing everything from beans and squash to an abundance of fresh vegetables. She also took great comfort in her faith, attending South Concord Church of God, where she was a beloved member of the congregation.
To know Mary Jo was to be loved unconditionally. Her greatest joy was her family, and her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her kindness and her unwavering support.
Visitation will be at Whitley’s Funeral Home on Friday June 20th at 1:00 with a chapel service to follow at 2:00pm, and burial to follow at 11:00 Saturday June 21 at Emma’s Grove Baptist Church in Fletcher, NC. All who knew and loved Mary Jo are welcome to attend and share memories of a truly remarkable woman.
She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
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