Bessie Jo Parker Champion

Bessie Jo Parker Champion, age 85, of Granbury, TX, passed away peacefully after complications from a stroke on December 17, 2018. Graveside service: 2:00 PM, Saturday, December 22, 2018, Rock Church Cemetery.

Jo was born in Somervell County, TX on October 22, 1933 to Edna Katherine and James Tucker Parker. Her strength and character started at a young age. As a child, she helped her family farm and provide for the community. As she grew older, she married, James Edwin Underwood, and was blessed with three children; Carl Underwood, Sharon Underwood Chrysler and Lowell (Corky) Underwood.

Jo had a passion for art, advertising and traveling. In the 1970’s, Jo became the first female advertising agent in DFW and received many awards and achievements. Her love for art and poetry never grew old. Her mind was sharp and provided her a good 85 years. Her legacy will remain; a woman of the highest integrity, hard-working, strong and kind. She lived a long and adventurous life.

Jo is survived by her son Lowell (Corky) Underwood and wife Elaine, stepson Michael Champion and wife Debbie, grandchildren; Faye Fortenberry (Shane), Cosmo Underwood, JoElla Underwood and Amy Nichols, great-grandchildren; Collette Fortenberry, Dax and Davin Nichols, along with many other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by both parents and her brother and sister along with son Carl Underwood (Barbara) and daughter Sharon Underwood Chrysler (Jack).