Mary Jo Winokur

Mary Jo Winokur Mary Jo Winokur was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on April 29, 1932, to the late Catherine Seifried and Charles Schmitt, and died on June 2, 2025. Predeceased by her husband James L. Winokur, she is survived by her daughters Megan Sherman (Keith Kaste) and Tanya (Andy) Nicholls; her grandson Finn Kaste; and her dearest friend Gary McKillop. Mary Jo grew up in Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania. After high school graduation, she began a modeling career, and later completed studies in Russian at the University of Pittsburgh while working as an assistant for Judge Michael A. Musmanno, a job she loved. With her children and then-husband Henry Sherman, she moved to Ligonier, where she became president of the League of Women Voters. A ballet dancer from her youth, Mary Jo brought her performing arts talents to the Valley Players of Ligonier, playing lead roles in Guys and Dolls, Kiss Me, Kate, and Brigadoon, eventually becoming president of the organization. Always creative, Mary Jo took up photography, and was an interior architecture photographer, as well as a prolific needleworker. Mary Jo loved travel, and later in life, after moving back to Pittsburgh, she and her husband Jim traveled together extensively. She was an avid gardener at that time and known throughout the neighborhood for her stunning rose garden. Mary Jo had a kind heart and boundless generosity for her community and the individuals in it. She was also spirited, adventurous, and a bit defiant. For example, she was keenly aware of the injustice in exclusionary societal norms and reached out to oﬀer help and friendship to people from all walks of life. She loved parties and bringing people together, often including people who might otherwise not have crossed paths. Most of all, Mary Jo loved her family and was very proud of her children and grandson. Her family would like to thank the staﬀ at Concordia of Fox Chapel for their kindness and care; her caregivers Lynn, Mary, Trevor, and others who made Mary Jo's last years the best they could be; and Lauren for the magical way she brought light and joy to Mary Jo's days. Her family would also like to express their deep gratitude to Gary, Mary Jo's best friend-he was always there for her, and his dedication and constant compassion were invaluable. Private services will be held later in the year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Professional services entrusted to Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory Ltd; 930 Center Avenue Blawnox, PA, 15238; www.thomasmsmithfuneralhome.com.

Mary Jo Winokur

April 29, 1932 - June 2, 2025