She was born in Jonesborough to the late Aulie C. and Thelma S. Couch. Jo Ann graduated from Lamar High school and was an employee with the Postal Service for 30 years. After retirement in 1991, she and her late husband, Maynard, enjoyed golf, working at Graysburg Golf Course and gardening. She was a member of the FCC home demonstration club, where she entered her cross stitch and won many blue ribbons. She enjoyed needle work. Jo Ann was a member of Gray United Methodist Church, where she volunteered with meals for the homeless and was a member of the apple butter gang.