Betty "JoAnn" Ashlock

Betty “JoAnn” Ashlock of Virgil passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday morning, August 6, 2024, at the age of 84.

JoAnn was born on March 23rd, 1940, in Neal, Kansas as the daughter of Arthur Marion and Anna Marian (Crouch) Watts. She was raised in the Quincy area with her twelve siblings. She graduated from Virgil High School and was a member of the class of 1959. JoAnn was united in marriage to James Lowell Ashlock on August 23rd, 1959. To this union, two children were born.

JoAnn worked at the sewing factory in Yates Center in her early years, where she manufactured gear for racecar drivers. However, she found even greater fulfillment in raising her children, caring for other family members, cultivating impressive gardens, and helping her husband with their horses. She was an incredible cook; each meal was made from scratch, and her baked good recipes were highly sought after. 

JoAnn was an exceptionally talented artist, creating mesmerizing artwork that frequently led to publication. She was also highly skilled with a needle and thread, excelling in both mending clothes and custom embroidery work. Early on, she sang frequently and even recorded tracks at Joyland. JoAnn had an incredible work ethic and the ambition required to exceed in every role she fulfilled during her life.

As her family grew with the addition of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, so did her capacity for love. She was immensely giving and would do anything for her family, no matter the time of day or night. JoAnn enjoyed attending school events and was always present for her family's milestones, taking great pride in their accomplishments.

JoAnn is survived by her son, Zack Lane Ashlock of rural Virgil; her daughter, Kimberley Hall, and son-in-law, Karl Hall, both of Virgil. She also leaves behind three grandsons: Zevi Ashlock and his wife, Jamie, of rural Neal; Shane Ashlock of Neal; and Kolton Hall and his wife, Wenli, of Overland Park. Additionally, she is survived by five great-grandchildren: Candice, Raegen, Madeline, Brynlee, and Cecilia. JoAnn is also survived by two sisters, Anna Mae Hare of Coyville and Sharon Hellman of Eureka, as well as many nieces and nephews.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her siblings: Adeline Hobbs, Bert Watts, Walter Watts, Fay Johnson, Alma Lee Schlotterback, Dolly Ashlock, Nellie Johnson, John Watts, Kenneth Watts, and Arthur Ray Watts.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 12, 2024, at Virgil Cemetery. Family will receive friends an hour before service at cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at Vanarsdalefs.com.