Joanna Appleby Cline

On March 2, 1945 in Monmouth, Illinois, a special lady was born to Ed & Lois Appleby. Daughter Jo was born and graced lives galore over a lifetime that ended far too early on July 28, 2024.

Jo and sister Sue enjoyed wonderful years growing up together with their parents. Over time the sisters learned the game of golf. That training proved to be a blessing, ultimately influencing Jo’s dear husband, Sam, to enjoy the game. That resulted in an eventual move to Highlands Ridge where Jo & Sam joined and helped shape a loving, caring community.

Family was always important to Jo. Her love and caring for people included “official” families like the Applebys, Petersons and Clines; “unofficial” family members like Highlands Ridge neighbors, the TaTa girls, Thursday Hand & Foot ladies, 9-hole Golfers, Meals on Wheels partners, etc.; plus “new friends” who were fortunate enough to receive her smile/wave/caring/loving (though they didn’t even know her name …)

Jo made helping others a lifetime priority. That included a career assisting executives to provide quality education, religion and community development; plus volunteer roles delivering Meals on Wheels in Highland County, feeding the unhoused, and other endeavors too numerous to fully describe. Jo helped so many in our world, and did so without an interest in being officially recognized.

Jo and Sam shared a full, loving, caring, life together. They enjoyed the company of friends wherever they lived, especially the many “retirement years” they’ve enjoyed in Highlands Ridge! Golfing allowed this dynamic Cline duo to play couples golf and also with groups of their own [and though she’d likely NOT want this mentioned, Jo had a wonderful run of 3 holes-in-one in 4 months!] Social activities have been plentiful with card-playing, Dominoes, concert gatherings and more. Both loved to travel domestically and internationally, sometimes as a couple and other times joined by dear family and friends.

The last few years have shown Jo as the incredible presence she was. Diagnosed with rare diseases that ultimately claimed her life, she endured the health challenges with incredible grace and strength. She and Sam are so grateful for the medical community that was so supportive, plus for all the friends and family who have been on this journey, lifting them up as though on Eagle’s wing.

Should you wish to honor Jo’s memory, with gratitude for her life well-lived, please find your own way to share Jo’s legacy - - by spreading a little extra sunshine to those around you; by supporting a local charitable organization with your time or finances; and/or by donating to charities Jo loved: Hands for Homeless , Best Friends , Samaritan’s Touch or Good Shepherd Hospice which supported Jo, Sam and family so effectively in her last days.

A celebration of life is being planned in Highlands Ridge Community Room (Avon Park, FL) on the afternoon of March 1, 2025.

In closing, one friend and former colleague said this about our dear Jo: “you are my favorite human of all-time.” Sleep in heavenly peace, Jo Cline…

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
4001 Sebring Parkway
Sebring, FL 33870