Josephine BAKER Obituary

Jo was a wonderful cousin and friend to my brother and I. Jo gave my brother Bill the opportunity to enjoy and explore New Zealand over 20 years ago, and she did the same for me when I came out to visit. When Jo came here to be an Animal Aunt it was wonderful to catch up with her again. I will always remember Jo at this time of year, as she came to visit . With my small boys they cleared all the leaves from the garden and enjoyed a bonfire. Jo was such a huge support when Bill sadly died in a horse riding accident. I will always remember her fondly. My love to Clare, Tim, and Shona, she will be so missed. xx

Jo is unforgettable. She was a woman of principle and honour who loved unstintingly, and was faithful to her Sonny all her life. He was there with her and with the children at all times in their lives, never forgotten at any festivity or family occasion.

Jo's influence on you, Claire, Tim, Shona, and much loved grandchildren, will stay with you and be a touchstone for you in your lives. Jo may have escaped where she can feel no sadness or pain, but she lives on in you. Such is the amazing effect of a life well-lived.

And we, her friends, are also touched by her life and caring. We've all got precious memories without which we would be much poorer.

Rest in Peace, dear Jo, your influence lingers on.

Such a strong person, Mother, loyal friend, hard worker and keeper of standards, including culinary, was our Jo!

My family and I - that is Ceri, Robin, Jessie and I - and my husband Ian all have fond memories of Jo. Robin's wife Christina loved her too.

For as long as I've known Jo - since just after Sonny's death - I have marvelled at how much she cared for and worked for her children, and then later for her grandchildren. She was when in usual health, a tower of strength. And she lived with the conviction that Sonny was watching over them. He was there all her life and in the lives of her children.

All I can say is: " By their fruits ye shall know them". So we look at Claire, Tim and Shona, and we know Jo. And we look at her grand- children and see that Jo's essence is being carried on through them.

Rest in Peace, dear Jo.

My kind thoughts and prayers to you all. I have been very grateful for Jo's friendship & ministry over many years and I hope that in the days to come you may be comforted by the kind thoughts that many send you in remembering her. Shalom.

Jo you were an incredible friend who I got to know when our children were growing up together in Korokoro. Your love for Sonny who sadly died when Clare, Tim and Shona were preschoolers, never changed. Sonny was always with you and now you are together again. Rest in peace Jo and love to all your beloved family . Thanks for so many happy memories.

Dear Timoti & Deborah, Clare, Shona & Barret and families, my love and deepest sympathy to you and yours at this time. Jo was such a good friend and we had some special times in Wellington when she worked for Archbishop Brian and until she moved north. Much love to you all Maureen Ellis