Obituaries

On February 23, 1943, Mary Josephine Sturdivent Graf was born in Covington, KY to Richard and Ruth, and the world became a brighter place. Mary Jo’s life exemplified faith, family, generosity and kindness. Her parents and her brother, Doug were the first to experience her absolute dedication.

While working in the secretarial pool together, Mary Jo’s friend Jill arranged a date with her brother John, who was home on leave from the Navy. It didn’t take long for Mary Jo and Jill to become sisters-in-law! Their sons Jack and Russell were soon born. In time, her grandchildren, Johnny and Russell, Jr. were added to her heartstrings. Mary Jo’s fierce dedication to her family knew no bounds.

Regardless of her own struggles, Mary Jo always had a smile for others. She lived her life with compassion and generosity. Her deep faith was unwavering. There were several times when her faith carried others through difficult seasons. Gratefully, that faith has now brought her home to our Lord on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Mary Jo leaves behind her husband of 63 ½ short years John, their two sons Jack (Lynn) and Russell (Heidi) and two grandsons Johnny and Russell, Jr. along with numerous relatives and friends. Mary Jo will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. A visitation will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church from 10:30am – 11:30am. Mass to follow directly after. She will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers or donations, John asks that you simply pray the Our Father and Hail Mary on Mary Jo’s behalf. She would say “that is good, good, good, good, good.”