Farewell to a friend

As it goes in a small town, The Times staff, friends and contributors have become a family and we lost a valued member on Easter Sunday. With great sadness, we share news of the passing of Norma Jo Shay, affectionately known as Grandma Jo.

Jo was known far and wide as the mandolin strumming frontwoman for the band, Grandma & the Boys, where she, late son Shawn Wray and friend Joe McCutcheon played bluegrass, old-time country, and gospel songs locally and on tour. Jo's love for music was infectious, and she was a mainstay at the local bluegrass jams.

The Times staff enjoyed learning about her love for the outdoors, particularly fishing and sharing her cleaned and filleted catch with some of her luckier friends. She charged through life with an upbeat, eyes-forward attitude, always leading with a smile. Jo inspired her close-knit family with her art, music, and her outdoorsmanship.

Shay was a great supporter of The Times, and our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.